First Minister attends thought-provoking, timely community theatre premiere in Mid Ulster

It was a challenging performance at a time when 30 women have been violently killed in Northern Ireland since 2020 – in the majority of which the perpetrator was a man known to the female victim. CRAIC Theatre’s ‘Called Out’ addresses this disturbing issue head on and was commended by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland as an arts production addressing contemporary societal changes, while contributing to improved health and wellbeing – a strategic priority for ACNI.

The piece is performed by Craic Theatre mainstay and Italia Conti trained Mid Ulster / London based actor Rónán Even Johnson, using recordings of 5 real women’s stories of abuse, dissecting the social norms of how young men speak about women and girls.

The production was at times funny, uncomfortable, interactive, reflective but always challenging – challenging the role men play in refuting and rejecting misogyny. It explored peer culture and codes of silence, recognising the courage it takes to challenge harmful behaviours as they are witnessed.

‘Called Out’ was written and directed by husband-and-wife production duo Aoibhe Johnson Clarke and Cathal Clarke and has already received incredible high-profile acclaim.

Michelle O’Neill, First Minister of Northern Ireland shared; 

‘What a performance. Called out was powerful, honest and at times uncomfortable because it reflects the reality that too many women and girls face. Violence against women and girls is a scourge on our society and has absolutely no place in it. Projects like this help drive real, lasting cultural change. Well done to all in CRAIC Theatre’

Patricia Lavery, Head of Community Arts and Education, Arts Council of Northern Ireland added: 

‘‘Called Out’ is an emotive and powerful performance that tackles the societal need to end violence against women. It is an outstanding example of how the arts can safely explore hard hitting subjects using creativity to question and open dialogue through high quality performance. Congratulations to all involved’

Wee Yarn Productions has complied feedback on the production so far and have shared, of the young people who viewed the play:

• 94% said they felt more aware of how their actions effect and affect others.
• 93% said it changed how they think about gender-based violence.
• 93% felt emotionally moved or reflective.
• 69% said they would now speak up or seek help if they witnessed this harmful behaviours.

The team are currently in the process of aiming to expand the production to be shared further afield across Northern Ireland.

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to be Principal Funder of The CRAIC Theatre and Arts Centre, Coalisland.

Find out more about Called out and the CRAIC Theatre here - Called Out | Craic Theatre and Arts Centre

Craic Theatre and Arts Centre | All A Bit of Craic | Coalisland | Tyrone