Oliver Sykes – Alfie’s First Fight

Inspired by children’s author and former amateur boxer, Oliver Sykes’ experiences growing up without a mum and being coached as an amateur boxer by his dad, Alfie’s First Fight is a funny and heart-warming show that packs a punch for children and their grown-ups. It features boxing action, surprising plot twists, compelling characters and an inspiring boy hero.

If you liked Roald Dahl’s Danny Champion of the World, the books of Jacqueline Wilson or the Rocky Movies, then you’ll love this ‘edge-of-your-seat storytelling’.

A funny and heart-warming show that packs a punch for children (aged 5+) and their grown ups. Written and performed by Oliver Sykes. Directed by Dominic Berry.

With ‘quick wit and entertaining knockabout charm’ (RemoteGoat), Oliver Sykes takes his debut solo theatre show Alfie’s First Fight on a national tour.

About Oliver Sykes:

Oliver is an award-winning producer, performer and children’s author, based in Manchester. He is also one of six kids, and was brought up on a council estate in rural Derbyshire by his single parent dad. His family lived on the breadline, receiving clothing donations from local charities and free school meals.

As a child, Oliver wrote countless poems and short stories, sketched characters and performed plays for his friends and family. Despite having no connections within the Arts, Oliver decided to follow his ultimate passion and pursue a creative career; his ultimate ambition, to become a Storyteller.

It’s been a whirlwind 18 months for Oliver. He has become a Supported Artist with Manchester Libraries, Manchester Children’s Book Festival and Z-Arts. He has secured publishing deals for four new children’s books and adapted his dazzling debut children’s novel, Alfie’s First Fight, into a remarkable children’s theatre show. He is part of Penguin’s Incubator programme and he is currently working as Lead Artist at Stories Of Care, following in the footsteps of powerhouse, Sophie Willan.

In January 2022, the British Citizen Awards will officially recognise Oliver for his positive impact within the arts community. Of Oliver, they said, “Having overcome a difficult start in life, he has used his experiences as fuel to overcome challenges and barriers of class and social mobility to build his own career in the arts, after which, he has actively created progression routes to help other marginalised young people do the same. His is a vitally important voice that needs to be heard.”

Oliver’s quotes and reviews
• ‘Sykes is an extremely articulate improviser; consistently delivering the goods with quick wit and entertaining knockabout charm’ RemoteGoat
• ‘Tactile, witty and utterly irreverent’ The Public Reviews
• ‘Manchester Libraries are big fans of Oliver Sykes. He knows exactly how to communicate with an audience of all ages and create characters that you truly care about. Edge of your seat storytelling!’ Danny Middleton, Manchester Libraries
• ‘Alfie’s First fight not only captures what it is like to be a boxer and step into the ring with all the nerves and adrenaline that comes with it; but also acknowledges the real struggle of workingclass families, of single parents, and the special love and bond which comes from those experiences.’ Stacey Copeland, Commonwealth Super-Welterweight Champion
• ‘A gripping story for kids that captures the true drama of life, both in and out of the boxing ring’ Ciaran Broomhead, Head Coach, Buxton Amateur Boxing Club
• ‘A thrilling children’s adventure full of heart and ebullience, Alfie’s First Fight isn’t just an amazing story about boxing, it’s about love, loss, family, and how to fight for what you want; a must-watch for any plucky youngster’ Sophie Willan, Comedian, Care Leaver and Activist

Website: www.oliver-sykes.com

All tickets £5