PlayMakers Repertory Company
By Marco Ramirez Directed by Vivienne Benesch
Some fights are bigger than a title.
Sep 10 - 28
It’s more than a boxing match—it’s a fight for freedom. With propulsive rhythms and poetic storytelling, this gripping drama follows a champion who dares to break barriers and battle for victory in and out of the ring.
September 10–28, 2025
The Royale contains mature themes and language. Please see our content transparency section below for more information.
The Royale by Marco Ramirez is a high-energy, stylized drama inspired by the story of Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight boxing champion. While the movement is choreographed and no punches land onstage, the story’s themes and language carry significant emotional weight.
Content Considerations
Tone & Style
The play is poetic and choreographed, with heightened theatricality in place of literal fight scenes.
For additional questions about content, you may contact audiences services: prcboxoffice@unc.edu
Tickets start at $20
▶ Wednesday, September 10 at 7:30 PM
▶ Thursday, September 11 at 7:30 PM
▶ Friday, September 12 at 7:30 PM
Previews not only cost less, but they allow you to be among the first audience members to experience The Royale. Be an early adopter and earn bragging rights that you saw it first.
▶ Saturday, September 13 at 8:00 PM
Join us for the Opening performance of The Royale followed by a celebration in the lobby with light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Get your playbill signed, meet the artists, and enjoy the festivities together.
Special Thanks to Pineapple Sol and Glasshalfull
Watch to see what Opening Nights are like at PlayMakers!
▶ Sunday, September 14 at 2:00 PM
The Royale might not be the show for your young one to enjoy, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join you. PlayMakers has partnered with Seed Art Share to provide on-site childcare for ages 4-12 with engaging, theatre-based fun while you enjoy the performance.
▶ Sunday, September 21 at 2:00 PM
This performance will feature Open Captioning, allowing you to read along with the dialogue.
Join us after the show for a post-show discussion to talk about the play with members of the The Royale cast and creative team.
▶ Tuesday, September 24 at 7:30 PM
ASL Interpreters and Audio Description will be available for patrons. For the best view of the ASL Interpreters, please contact the Box Office at 919.962.7529 or prcboxoffice@unc.edu.
