Hard-hitting play opens at FC

Fullerton College Hornet  - Staff Writer - Wednesday, November 1st, 2000

Tomorrow, "Blade to the Heat" opens at the Bronwyn Dodson Theatre. The play is loosely based on the story of Benny (Kid) Perat, who was killed in the ring for making a homophobic remark. The story is written by Oliver Mayer and directed by Gary Krinke.

The script uses boxing to portray the problematic sexuality of a group of male fighters It is set in 1959, around the time when< Latinos were emerging into the boxing world.

It's about a young boxer, Pedro Quinn, who unexpectedly wins a major middleweight tile against champ Mantquilla Decima. Pedro, who is gay but keeps it hidden, struggles to come to terms with his feelings for a black male singer.

Being beaten by a gay fighter unnerves the macho Decima, throwing his own sexual security in doubt.What results is a dangerous and deadly confrontation in the ring.

The play runs from Nov 2-11 and is recommended solely for mature audiences, due to adult themes, nudity, and content. Tickets are available by calling (714) 992-7298 or by visiting the Theatre Box Office.