‘Relentless’ packs a punch with fresh storytelling

“Relentless” makes its way into the ring at Syracuse Stage as a continuation of the theater’s 2025-26 season. Complete with strong set design and detailed performances, the play aims for a knockout at its world premiere.

The story follows Monique Jeffries, a retired boxer who was destined for greatness until a brutal blow to her head left her blind in her left eye. Monique and her former coach Johnny Pierce, who relentlessly pushed her during her fighting days, now own Bailey’s, a boxing gym that barely makes ends meet.

The story’s conflict begins when one of their white collar clients make an offer to buy the gym to transform it from a gritty holdout to a bougie facility. The change in ownership sets up a clash between Monique and Johnny, who still face unsettled tensions.

Perhaps the most striking element of the show is one audiences see as soon as they walk into the theatre: the set. Design elements such as wooden planks on the ring and hanging banners all work to transform the stage into a long-standing gym in an increasingly gentrified Brooklyn neighborhood. The design maximizes the use of the entire stage with not a single area left unfilled with set pieces. The detailed pieces of the design reinforce the themes of authenticity and amplifies the originality associated with the play.

Another aspect of the show that is filled with authenticity comes from the performers. Rebecca S’manga Frank’s performance as Monique captivates audiences with her thunderous delivery and intense expressions. Jeorge Bennett Watson’s debut performance at the Stage as Johnny was equally powerful, holding a sense of real humanity. Another standout performance was Stephen Michael Spencer as Matt, the client offering to buy Bailey’s. His awkwardness adds to the perceived difference in socioeconomic backgrounds he shares with Monique, something that drives the chemistry and conflict in their relationship. 

Courtesy of Syracuse Stage

Rebecca S’manga Frank’s performance as Monique captivates audiences.

The strongest aspect of the play is the original book from playwright Rae Binstock. Through Binstock’s writing, it is apparent that play is about more than just boxing. The story at its core is about what it means to have the autonomy to fight your own battles while retaining one’s authentic self. Characters clash with each other over perceived, and real, losses of their sense of self and the ability to stand up for themselves. This is apparent in Monique’s grudge with Johnny, something that serves as the driving force of conflict.

Due to the first act of the play being so strong, it feels as though the second act does have an abrupt ending that could leave audiences wanting more. With so much happening in the first act, including the introduction of characters and setting up the plot, it’s almost impossible to top it in the following act. The second act has its highlights, but its shorter run time sets up an ending that may feel unexpectedly early.

Overall, “Relentless’” is a rich and original play that will make audiences feel like they themselves are thrown in the ring alongside the characters. 

“Relentless” plays at Syracuse Stage through Feb. 22 with tickets available here.