Cadel: Lungs on Legs – A Theatrical Celebration of a Tour de France Victory

A one-man show titled "Cadel: Lungs on Legs" chronicles Cadel Evans' historic 2011 Tour de France victory, a performance that marks 15 years since he became the first Australian to win the event. Actor Connor Delves portrays Evans, performing on a stationary bike used by Evans himself during the 2011 Tour de France. Delves cycles over 27km during the show.

"Cadel: Lungs on Legs" commemorates Cadel Evans' landmark 2011 Tour de France victory, 15 years after he made history as the first Australian to win the event.

Following an acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe, the production is currently playing at Perth's Cygnet Theatre at Hale School before traveling to South Australia. The show was co-written by Delves and playwright Steve McMahon, and directed by Mark Barford.

Crafting the Production

Extensive research for the production included interviews with Evans, providing invaluable insight into his mindset and self-talk. Adding to its authenticity, the show incorporates Evans' actual 2011 Tour de France bike and his iconic yellow jersey.

The Narrative Arc

The narrative opens on the penultimate day of the 2011 Tour de France in Grenoble, immediately highlighting Evans' critical position in third place overall and his urgent need to gain time in the final time trial.

The story then shifts to a non-linear format, tracing Evans' early life in the outback, his encounters with injury, and the gradual development of his extraordinary endurance.

The show delves into Evans' early life, battling injuries and forging the endurance that would define his career.

Key aspects of Evans' career, such as endurance testing in Canberra and press conferences during a period of intense doping scrutiny in cycling, are depicted. The production frequently references his numerous second-place finishes, crashes, and injuries, all interwoven with internal monologues representing Evans' self-talk and resilience.

Staging and Visuals

The staging places Delves at the center of a circular platform, fostering an intimate experience with the audience seated close by. Three screens enhance the immersive quality, displaying archival footage, breathtaking aerial scenery, and locations significant to Evans' memory and journey.

A Climactic Finish

The final sequence dramatically returns to the 2011 Tour de France's decisive time trial, culminating in Evans' hard-fought victory and his subsequent triumphant entry into Paris in the coveted yellow jersey.