A Derry-based theatre company that works with marginalised communities is bringing a highly acclaimed play about the refugee experience to Northern Ireland next week.
The idea to host the play, which is being brought to the city as part of Good Relations Week, was the brainchild of Artistic Director of Sole Purpose Productions, Patricia Byrne.
'Mohand & Peter' will be staged at the Pilots Row Community Centre in Derry on September 23 and 24.
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Patricia, who saw the play while in London earlier this year, said she was determined to bring it to Northern Ireland and after contacting the Founder of London-based PSYCHEdelight and the play’s Director, Sophie Bertrand Besse, the pair worked together to make it happen.
The idea also gathered the support of the Community Relations Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
The production tells the true story of a Sudanese refugee who longs to return to his homeland to see his friends and family. Despite the serious theme, it is packed full of humour, physical theatre and is suitable for adults, families and young people.
Performances will be followed by Q&As with the actors and director. The company will also run Together Workshops which will provide a space for refugees and host communities to mix, socialise and have fun.
Patricia said her interest in the situation for refugees was linked to her experience of being the child of Irish immigrants growing up in London in a multicultural, immigrant, working-class area.
She said: “My parents often felt discriminated against, they remembered the signs that said ‘no blacks, no Irish, no dogs’. I’ve always endeavoured to promote multi-cultural work through Sole Purpose Productions.”
Meanwhile, Patricia Lavery, Head of Community Arts and Education, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, added, “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to support Sole Purpose working with PSYCHEdelight Theatre with this latest production.
"It demonstrates the power of using the arts to shine a light on and create open discussion around challenging, important subjects."
Sophie Bertrand Besse said the purpose of the play is to address the trauma of long-term exile and to rehumanise people and places.
She said: “Behind each refugee and war zone, there is a person and a home. With Mohand & Peter we aim to celebrate them.”
Tickets are £10 for those who are interested in attending, while the performance on September 23 will be a special free event for Culture Night. Free tickets will be available for refugees and asylum seekers.
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