Ann Crilly

ANNE CRILLY

ANNE CRILLY

Why did you choose to apply to be involved in the Theatre and Peacebuilding Academy Project?

This was a unique opportunity to be involved in a unique project. I had attended other Peacebuilding Academy Projects and was impressed with how sensitive topics were explored in high quality art forms.

Can you tell us about the project that you led up? What issues did your work address?

I developed a new play by Derry writer Micheal Kerrigan. The play focuses on two young men at the start of the Troubles in Derry 1969 and explores the different types of political and personal freedom in ‘Free Derry’.

What format did the work take and why did you use this approach?

The stage play was due to be performed at the end of March ’20 but was postponed due to COVID-19. It is scheduled for a performance which will be captured for audio broadcast on 30th September 2020. The September performance will be a stripped back production to reflect the consequences of COVID-19 on Theatre production.

Thinking of the participants, can you share with us who was involved in your work?

Research participants were mostly from the LGBTQ community in Derry who reflected on issues relating to sexual identity in a time of conflict. Micheal Kerrigan, the writer, explored these issues further in his play ‘Beyond the Barricades’ and gives a unique insight into issues of masculinity and war and asks the question ‘Who was free in ‘Free Derry’?’.

What impact did the project have on you?

Firstly I learned about experiences I was mostly unaware of relating to the hidden LGBTQ experiences at the start of the Troubles in Derry. During rehearsals, I was further convinced of the power of theatre to explore sensitive issues in a safe and non-threatening manner.

Do you feel that involvement with the project has made a difference to the participants?

Their experiences have been valued and many remarked about the liberating effect of being able to freely discuss LGBTQ issues in relation to the Northern Ireland conflict.

What for you was the best thing about the project?

Developing the script with Micheal Kerrigan and seeing it brought to life by the talented actors before COVID-19 struck was a unique privilege. I was delighted to be able to develop this script which explores ideas of masculinity and war in the Northern Ireland context. Seeing the actors learn about neglected experiences and bring these experiences to life through drama really vindicated the Theatre and Peace Building Academy project.

What was the audience reaction to the work produced?

The impact during rehearsals on cast and crew from the North West and beyond has been enormous. We have all learned so much about a hidden part of the history of the Troubles in Derry and feel privileged to be part of the project.

Where can people find your work? Links etc.

The recording of ‘Beyond the Barricades’ will be available via The Playhouse Derry’s Digital Project.