Boxing Comissioner Turns Playwright

Ron Scott Stevens, Chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission who oversees boxing in the state, has been involved in the sport of professional boxing for 30 years as a promoter, matchmaker, editor and ring announcer. Appointed by Governor George Pataki on June 10, 2003, he was recently re-appointed for another three-year term.

But Stevens has another very unique passion. He is a playwright. On September 7, 2006, his latest endeavor, “Cherry’s Patch,” will premiere at the Soho Playhouse, located at 15 Vandam Street, in New York City. The play will run through September 17 in a limited engagement.

“Cherry’s Patch” is a story of a heroic Captain in the New York City Fire Department whose death is caused by a cowardly lieutenant. The firefighters decide to deal out justice themselves in this strong and gripping play.

The drama unfolds just prior to 9/11 as all the company members go on an emotional journey that takes them to the doorstep of the tragedy at the World Trade Center. Although the tale is fictional, the play is steeped in factual events that took place in New York City over the last decade.

A native of New York City, Stevens, 59, has been writing plays for more than 20 years. “Cherry’s Patch” is his fourth play, and he has already begun work on his next drama, “The Cutting Den.” Ron has lived in Brooklyn Heights for the last 25 years.

“Boxing is theatre in its purest form,” says Stevens. “The ring approximates the stage and the audience can become captivated as the events evolve until they reach their conclusion.”

Ron studied playwriting with Dick Longchamps, and acting with a variety of teachers including Herbert Bergoff, Uta Hagen, William Hickey, Steve Strimpell and Jess Osuna. He is a graduate of Hofstra University where he received a BA in English in 1969. He also attended The John Marshall Law School in Chicago.

Tickets are priced at $25 and $50, and are available by calling 212-691-1555, or at www.sohoplayhouse.com.