When the curtain rises on the world premiere performances of Maryland Opera Studio's Shadowboxer on April 17, 2010, the collaborative energies of the artistic team will be on full display. But bringing this concept to fruition also required behind-the-scenes research into the world of boxing. In a hands-on experience with the University of Maryland Terps Boxing Club, cast members perfected their uppercuts, right jabs and left hooks for the stage, learning what it feels like to strap on the gloves and move like a fighter. Additional insights into Joe Louis's life were provided by Adrian Davis, owner of Round One Boxing in Brentwood, Maryland, and self-made Joe Louis scholar.