To bleed or be bled?

The Sporting Life follows a student’s journey out of girlhood, learning what becoming a woman

means in a patriarchal world. While it’s difficult to share a lot about the show without spoiling

some of the spectacular surprises, you should expect lots of blood and gore (and laughs!). The

first scene comes out of the gate swinging and really gives you an accurate taste of what to

expect for the rest of the show.

The special effects were astounding and left me wondering “How did they do that?” many times.

Incredible squib placement or other blood-rig designs paired with talented acting really sold

each moment blood was shed. Some moments were seen directly, while others obscured

behind a scrim, but nothing felt lost with the latter, rather more gruesome moments could be

safely drawn out while the audience gasped and cheered.

After each scene, the lights would dim as sneakers clacked in the sticky red blood,

progressively covering the white stage floor. Unfortunately, the scene transitions noticeably

lagged, lowering the heightened stakes built up before the lights cut out. I’m not sure that could

have been avoided however, since the actors themselves moved all set pieces and had multiple

quick changes. With all hands on deck to swap a full sized couch for a large armchair and dining

table, among other set dressings, I could tell that safety was properly prioritized. With no

intermission, I suggest using one of the transitions to run to the restroom, though be mindful that

the cast has multiple entrances and exits through the audience throughout.

It was joyous to watch the actors transform into all of the townsfolk and see some of them return

just to swiftly “depart” again. Ziare Paul-Emile was particularly amazing in the demanding role of

Dot and her performance during the first period scene is still sitting with me. Truly each actor felt

perfectly cast and I would highly recommend catching this run while you can.

The Sporting Life is the perfect “Coming of Rage” story to watch this spooky season, though its

message is hauntingly timeless. I recommend folks to bring a friend, as the story will leave you

with plenty to consider long after you leave.

The Sporting Life is playing at The Factory Theater, 1623 W. Howard St.

And runs October 10 - November 22

Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m.

An accessibility performance will occur on Sunday, Nov. 2.

Tickets and more information available by visiting TheFactoryTheater.com