Josh O’Connor (The Crown; Challengers) leads the cast in this searing revival of Clifford Odets’ knockout American classic.

1930s New York, at the height of the Depression. Joe Bonaparte is a gifted young violinist with a future in music, until a chance at fame and fortune lures him into the brutal world of professional boxing. He must confront what he’s willing to sacrifice, who he’s willing to become and how to find his place in a world that demands he choose a side.

Brought to life with a live string quartet and filmed live from the Almeida Theatre. Olivier Award-winner Sam Yates (Vanya) directs this propulsive drama exploring ambition, identity, and the high price of success.

Stage on Screen: National Theater Live

Experience acclaimed productions from London’s National Theatre—without leaving Chicagoland. Captured live from some of the world’s most celebrated stages, National Theatre Live brings the best of British theatre to Wirtz Center audiences, offering extraordinary performances, visionary artists, and the compelling stories shaping contemporary culture. Through this series, the Wirtz Center expands its commitment to artistic discovery and lifelong learning, connecting our community to world-class theatre while inspiring the next generation of artists, audiences, and creative thinkers.