Who was Australia’s first Aboriginal Olympian? Long before Cathy Freeman won gold in 2000, Lismore boxer Frank Roberts took that mantle at the 1964 Tokyo games.

Widjabul Wia-bul woman Rhoda Roberts tells her first-cousin’s story in a 75-minute monologue that also encompasses earlier generations of the Roberts family, and the broader Aboriginal community. Fundamentally, it’s a story about their fight for justice and respect.

Rhoda Roberts in My Cousin Frank. Photo © TJ Garvie

Directed by Kirk Page and produced by NORPA (Northern Rivers Performing Arts), My Cousin Frank is a precursor to the company’s theatrical production First Aboriginal Olympian, which is due to premiere next year.

Roberts speaks with pride, love and humour. She also shows extraordinary restraint when speaking about the injustices and indignities heaped upon Aboriginal people by government authorities and legislation during the 20th century.

In Arts Centre Melbourne’s intimate Showroom (usually the currently shuttered State Theatre’s rehearsal space), it’s just Roberts and little more than a wingback chair and an old boxing bag and gloves, all warmly lit by Karl Johnson.

The backdrop is black-and-white projections designed by Mic Gruchy and Jahvis Loveday. There are topical old family photos...