When Leena steps foot inside the boxing ring, shes invincible. Unshakable. Basically a 15-year-old legend in the making. But outside the ring? Thats where things get a bit... messier.Guard Up is a bold, funny, and unfiltered coming-of-age comedy about growing in up, standing your ground, and holding on to who you are"even when life tries to throw you off course. Leenas got big dreams: becoming a professional boxer, an astronaut, or even a CIA agent (or maybe all three?). Shes full of confidence and delusion in equal measure, and proud of it.But then puberty barges in like an uninvited guest, and suddenly men are looking at her weird, her mums signing her up to a boxing gym to channel her growing frustration, and her bodys doing things no one warned her about. As her life outside the ring gets more confusing, Leena starts punching her way through it"one sparring match, awkward school day, and unwanted male gaze at a time. Partly told inside a boxing ring through rounds of sparring Leena takes you on a journey of self-realisation, sacrifice and determination. Can she stay true to herself, and after everything, is becoming a professional boxer still possible?

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now