As the blockbuster hit movie Black Panther continues to set box-office records, Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes soars into arenas across the country. Feld Entertainment’s newest production smashes into Royal Farms Arena on Thursday, April 5 and runs through April 8, 2018.
The iconic Marvel Super Heroes Spider-Man and The Avengers are joined by the Guardians of the Galaxy, including Star-Lord, Gamora, Groot, Rocket and Drax, in a legendary battle to defend the universe from evil.
Baltimore native Anthony Briggs, Jr. portrays “Drax.” The 29-year-old Towson University graduate grew up in the Yale Heights area of Baltimore City.
“I am basically the muscle,” said Briggs. “Drax is of the warrior class.
He is always ready to go in any situation and jump in the heat of the battle. Playing Drax is a blast. I have a lot of fun. Drax is a muscle-bound dude who fights anything. The character also gives me the opportunity to highlight my field in Martial Arts.”
Briggs says he received his Martial Arts training at the U.S. Ninpo Academy under Sensei Robert Stevens.
“Growing up, Martial Arts was always a part of my life,” said Briggs who is 2nd Degree Black Belt. I also did some acting and stunt gigs.”
Briggs joined Feld Entertainment in 2017. He talked about how he “landed” the role of Drax.
“A friend sent me audition information on Facebook,” recalled Briggs. “I went to Washington, D.C. to audition, and received a call a year later for the show. Being a black male from Baltimore, I feel good about the work I am doing and being a positive role model. It helps to bring a positive light to the city, because now, we need it more than ever.”
Called on by Doctor Strange, the Guardians of the Galaxy join Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes on a momentous crusade against the scheming Nebula who teams up with the conniving and loathsome villains Loki and Green Goblin. The incredible superhuman forces of Iron Man, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk and Black Widow unite in clashes that pit student against mentor, sister against sister and brother against brother.
“This show is entertaining for everyone,” said Briggs. “It’s geared towards kids, but there are many things in the show that adults would appreciate such as the choreography and circus-style themes.”
The show boasts immersive video projection, cutting-edge special effects, dynamic aerial stunts, and daring motorcycle skills in the ultimate race against time to save mankind.
Briggs said he is looking forward to his return back to Royal Farms Arena in another capacity.
“I used to work at Royal Farms Arena when it was 1st Mariner Arena,” he said. “I was a transporter responsible for putting food on a pallet. To come back and perform is amazing. I had no clue that this was a possibility. It is really a blessing.”
He added, “It takes me back. I remember seeing the circus come through, but had no idea I would be performing in this arena. I am still star-struck even after doing more than 200 shows. I am looking forward to coming back home and performing for everyone.”
Courtesy Photo/Marvel
Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes opens at Royal Farms Arena Thursday, April 5, 2018 and runs through April 8, 2018. The character “Drax” is pictured far right.
For tickets to see Briggs and the other Marvel Universe LIVE! performers, visit www.marveluniverselive.com.