Marion High School Black History Club presents: ‘And in This Corner: Cassius Clay’

You know the story of Muhammad Ali, but do you know the story that came before? Later this month, you’ll have the chance to explore the famous icon’s early years, in the Marion High School Black History Club’s presentation of “And in This Corner: Cassius Clay”.
 
“And in This Corner” was written by Idris Goodwin, a contemporary playwright who has won many awards and accolades for his work. This vibrant historical drama focuses on the iconic boxer’s early life in Jim Crow-era Louisville, Ky. In it, Cassius Clay Jr. takes his first step into the ring and starts becoming the man would know as Muhammad Ali. It’s a classic story of an unlikely hero, but it also explores how remarkable communities help to create heroes.
 
The main actors in the play include brothers Jalen and Jordan Hill, a freshman and a senior, respectively, who play Cassius Clay in different stages of his life. Other cast members include Taliea Wells, senior, who is playing Clay’s mother, Odessa; Brett Cope, senior, playing Joe Martin, Clay’s trainer; James Bell, a junior, playing Eddie Green, Cassius’ best friend; Manual Davis, senior, playing Corky Baker, a neighborhood bully; along with seniors Kaleb Evans, Jacob Speikes, Jalon Spurgon, Joseph O’Donnell, Maria Porter, Darzuan Weaver, sophomore, and Toosie Jackson.
 
In addition, several members of the Marching Giants will be performing in a parade for the play.
 
The cast also includes a wide range of ages, from a second-grader to adults in the community, among 25 extras adding life to the play.
 
The MHS Black History Club has put on a play every year since 1980. The play is the largest fundraiser of the year for the club, and proceeds help fund their annual spring college tour to historically black colleges and universities. This year’s trip is to the Atlanta area.
 
Tickets can be purchased from any Black History Club member or from Bobbie Owensby, MHS teacher and sponsor of the club, as well as director of the play. They will also be available at the door the night of the play.
 
Anyone who wants to donate to the spring college trip or help in any other way can contact Mrs. Owensby as well, by calling her at the high school, 664-9051, ext. 3234.