An uplifting story based on the real life of County Durham boxer Glenn McCrory arrives at
Gala Durham, next week.
Carrying David will take audiences from the streets of County Durham to London and
beyond, following Glenn’s rollercoaster boxing career and his heart-warming relationship
with his brother.
Adapted from Glenn’s autobiography, the funny and dramatic play by Ed Waugh charts his
rise to becoming the region’s first world boxing champion following a fight at the Durham
County Council run Louisa Centre in 1989.
Glenn’s success was inspired by his late brother, David, who suffered from a degenerative
muscle-wasting disease and played a huge part in his life when they were growing up in
Stanley.
McCrory is played by actor Micky Cochrane, who is also producing the show and trained
with him ahead of taking up the role.
Micky said: “The play has really resonated and inspired audiences. We have had an
amazing response so far and even though there is an obvious boxing element, you don’t
have to be a fan of boxing to enjoy the play.
“Glenn’s story is very inspirational and features universal themes that we can all relate to.
After such a difficult 18 months following the pandemic, an uplifting story is something we
can all look forward to.”
Glenn said: “Having grown up in County Durham, it feels very special to know the play will
be performed at Gala Durham. I have so many special memories here, both with family
and from fighting here, so I do hope local audiences will enjoy the production.”
The play is one of the many offerings from Gala Durham’s new season of shows, including
comedy, live music, dance and festive fun.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and
partnerships, said: “It is fantastic to welcome a show about one of County Durham’s very
own success stories to Gala Durham. Carrying David is such a heart-warming and uplifting
story, and I am sure that audiences will also be inspired by Glenn’s journey.
“Championing this kind of success and bringing stories such as Glenn’s to life is a key part
of our UK City of Culture bid 2025. We want to celebrate all that is great about County
Durham, inspiring people to get involved in culture, sport and the many opportunities they
bring. Carrying David is a perfect blend of both aspects and we are really proud to
welcome it to our stage"
The performance starts at 7.30pm on Thursday 16 September, with tickets costing £16 or
£14 for concessions. To book online, visit: https://galadurham.co.uk/galapost/carrying-
david/
More information about the full Gala Durham programme can also be found at
https://galadurham.co.uk/