Frank Skully, a theatre producer with Dominican roots based in the UK, has made waves in the arts community with his acclaimed play, “Going For Gold.” This production has recently been honored as the Black British Theatre Award’s Play of the Year, and Skully is eager to bring this powerful narrative back to his ancestral home of Dominica.
The story of “Going For Gold” centers around the remarkable life of Vincentian boxer Frankie Lucas, penned by Skully’s neighbor and friend, Lisa Lintott. Lintott enlisted Skully’s expertise to help produce the play, casting her son, Jazz Lintott, in the lead role to help him break free from typecasting in terrorist roles.
The production began with a short film that garnered several festival awards, leading to a full theatre production that triumphed at the Brighton Fringe Festival. Following its success, the play had a four-day run at the Chelsea Theatre in London, where it won multiple awards, including Best Production and Best Lead Male for Jazz Lintott. Currently, the play is enjoying a four-week run at the Park Theatre in Finsbury Park, London.
The narrative of Frankie Lucas is one of resilience and triumph. In 1972, at just 18 years old, Lucas made headlines by defeating the favored Alan Minter to win the London Amateur Boxing Association middleweight championship. Despite his achievements, Lucas faced setbacks, including being overlooked for the Olympic team in favor of Minter, who went on to win a bronze medal. Undeterred, Lucas continued to excel, ultimately representing St. Vincent at the 1974 Commonwealth Games, where he claimed the gold medal after a stunning victory over Zambian boxer Julius Luipa.
Though Lucas’s professional boxing career was fraught with challenges, leading to a period of obscurity, his legacy endures through “Going For Gold.” The play serves as a testament to the power of dreams and community support, reminding audiences that perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements.
As discussions continue to bring “Going For Gold” to various Caribbean islands, including Barbados and St. Vincent, Skully is particularly passionate about staging the play in Dominica. He recently participated in a drama class in Roseau, sharing his experiences in theatre and acting with aspiring artists.
“Going For Gold” will be showcased at the Park Theatre in Finsbury Park from November 6 to 30, 2024. This production not only celebrates the life of Frankie Lucas but also aims to inspire audiences with its message of hope and determination.
After its London run this year, “Going For Gold” is poised to tour various Caribbean islands, including Dominica, and the producer welcomes inquiries and support from the community and those interested in bringing the play to his native land.
Skully, who has dedicated nearly two decades to the arts—transitioning from a career in film and theatre—has a rich background that includes founding his own production company and collaborating on numerous projects. Some of his other accolades include recognition for his writing and voice work, notably in the BBC’s first Caribbean family cartoon, “Jo Jo and Gran Gran,” where he voices the character Mr. Yellow. Recently, he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Black British Theatre Awards for his role in the touring play “Kiss Marry Kill,” produced by Dante or Die.
Let’s help this man bring this fantastic Windrush generation story home to Dominica