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1975

Echoes From a Concrete Canyon

Written by Wilson John Haire

Play Details

Context

Artistic Director 
Robert Kidd & Nicholas Wright

Dates Performed

Wednesday 28th May 1975
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs

Play Details

Synopsis

Belfast, 1975. In a city torn by sectarian violence and labour unrest, a young shipyard apprentice navigates the treacherous waters of identity, loyalty, and survival

Billy, a working-class apprentice at the shipyard, finds himself caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and personal upheaval. As strikes grip the city and violence simmers on the streets, Billy’s journey intersects with a cast of characters each battling their own demons. His struggle to define himself amidst the chaos becomes a microcosm of Belfast’s larger societal conflicts.

Wilson John Haire’s gritty drama explores themes of class struggle, political identity, and personal resilience in a divided city. Through raw, authentic dialogue and a non-linear narrative structure, the play offers a stark portrayal of 1970s Belfast, challenging audiences to piece together the fragmented experiences of its characters. With unflinching realism and a tone that balances somber reflection with cautious hope, Within Two Shadows provides a powerful commentary on the human spirit’s capacity to endure in times of strife.

Director(s)

Roger Croucher

Poster credit

Poster courtesy of V&A Theatre and Performance Archive

Cast & Creative

Cast

Nicholas Ball

Cast

James Grant

Cast

Judy Parfitt

Cast

Leslie Sarony

Cast

Gwyneth Strong

Designer

Anne Marie Schone

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