Daniel Campbell, Maryfrances Jennow and Katie Tennent in a comedy sketch from "Freedom from Chains"
What do you get if you take comedy, music, visual projection, film, poetry, sketches, movement and monologues and put them all together? The answer is “Freedom from Chains” – a new play by AGAP Theatre which will mark the 80th Anniversary of the Notre Dame Centre and the 5th Anniversary of AGAP.
The play is written and directed by Stephen Callaghan with support from the staff and clients of the Notre Dame Centre, which has provided support for children, young people and families since 1931. It will be the first AGAP Theatre production to open at the Old Sheriff Court building, on Brunswick Street in Glasgow’s Merchant City, which is home to Scottish Youth Theatre.
Performed by three energetic and versatile young actors, Maryfrances Jennow, Katie Tennent and Daniel Campbell (fresh from his performance that the Edinburgh Fringe), and accompanied by a ecclectic soundtrack from the 30s to the present day, chosen by musical director, Laurence Turner, the play is set to wow audiences. Stephen Callaghan said: “We should not underestimate the importance of the work carried out by the Notre Dame Centre in helping to rebuild the lives of children, young people and their families over the past 80 years. I hope that this play helps audiences to think about the contribution made by the centre to society and, although it is mostly an upbeat and entertaining celebration piece, I hope it will also raise awareness of the serious issues facing young people today.”
The play incorporates poetry written by past clients of the Centre as well as photographic images and a short film about its history. It is the task of Roisin Loughran, the show’s Stage Manager, to work with staff at the Centre to ensure that all of the various components come together.
“Freedom from Chains” will be performed on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October at 2.30pm at the Old Sheriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street in Glasgow City Centre. The Sunday is a double anniversary celebration, as it will be exactly 5 years since Archbishop Mario Conti appointed Stephen Callaghan to set up the project which has been a great success. Tickets for “Freedom from Chains” are £3 from 0141 554 1333 or info@agap.org.uk or pay at the door. Light refreshments will be served after the play.