AN uplifting story based on the real life of County Durham boxer Glenn McCrory arrives at Gala Durham, next week.

Carrying David will take audiences from the streets of County Durham to London and beyond, following Glenn’s rollercoaster boxing career and his heart-warming relationship with his brother.

Adapted from Glenn’s autobiography, the funny and dramatic play by Ed Waugh charts his rise to becoming the region’s first world boxing champion following a fight at the Durham County Council run Louisa Centre in 1989.

Glenn’s success was inspired by his late brother, David, who suffered from a degenerative muscle-wasting disease and played a huge part in his life when they were growing up in Stanley.

Speaking after writing the play, Ed said: "The script only took a couple of weeks to complete – I simply couldn't tear myself away from it – but it was the hardest thing I've ever written, and I've written 18 plays. Tears rolled down my cheeks.

"Glenn's rise in the boxing world is a story of a naive working class lad being exploited and humiliated, but inspired by David's daily fight for life, Glenn overcame these obstacles to become the first person from the North-East ever to hold a world boxing title. That alone is a remarkable achievement but, with David's story, this is about two brothers with one fight."

McCrory is played by actor Micky Cochrane, who is also producing the show and trained with him ahead of taking up the role.

Micky said: “The play has really resonated and inspired audiences. We have had an amazing response so far and even though there is an obvious boxing element, you don’t have to be a fan of boxing to enjoy the play.

“Glenn’s story is very inspirational and features universal themes that we can all relate to. After such a difficult 18 months following the pandemic, an uplifting story is something we can all look forward to.”

Glenn said: “Having grown up in County Durham, it feels very special to know the play will be performed at Gala Durham. I have so many special memories here, both with family and from fighting here, so I do hope local audiences will enjoy the production.”

The play is one of the many offerings from Gala Durham’s new season of shows, including comedy, live music, dance and festive fun.

Councillor Elizabeth Scott, Durham County council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “It is fantastic to welcome a show about one of County Durham’s very own success stories to Gala Durham. Carrying David is such a heart-warming and uplifting story, and I am sure that audiences will also be inspired by Glenn’s journey.

“Championing this kind of success and bringing stories such as Glenn’s to life is a key part of our UK City of Culture bid 2025. We want to celebrate all that is great about County Durham, inspiring people to get involved in culture, sport and the many opportunities they bring. Carrying David is a perfect blend of both aspects and we are really proud to welcome it to our stage.”

The performance starts at 7.30pm on Thursday, with tickets costing £16 or £14 for concessions. To book visit: https://galadurham.co.uk/galapost/carrying-david.

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