Callings

Written by Dominic Montague

Directed by Paula McFetridge

As the 70’s rage on, the telephone rings…

Callings follows five queer people who found sanctuary and community on the other end of the phone by seeking solace in Cara-Friend – a befriending service set up in the 1970’s to support the many hidden LGBTQ+ individuals across the north of Ireland.

Charged with the music of the day, and set amidst a storm of anti-gay headlines, Callings delves deep into the struggle for survival our queer communities faced on a daily basis.

Callings poignantly and powerfully expresses how even simple acts of connection can change the course of a life, and how during oppressive times, a gang of bright and brilliant queer people crafted community to save themselves and each other. In an era when the government attempted to quash their right to exist, these moments of connection were an act of resistance and rebellion.

From rallying against the Save Ulster from Sodomy campaign to revelling in the right to exist won through the Dudgeon vs UK trial, Callings looks back at the historical challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities, and celebrates just how far we’ve come.

“Someone out there has been plucking up the courage for god knows how long, tonight they’ll pick up the phone and you’ll be there for them…”

Callings – 2024 Tour Dates

At its core, Callings expresses the transformative power of connection, illustrating how even the simplest gestures can change lives. In an era when governmental forces sought to quash their existence, these moments of camaraderie became acts of resistance. 

Owen Crane, Love Belfast

A play about yesterday, Callings is also a timely play for today. It’s lent moving relevance by wholly sympathetic performances

Michael Quinn, British Theatre Guide

What an important piece of queer theatre for the north. Unreal!

18-25, Male, BT65

Absolutely amazing! This is one of the most profound pieces I

have seen in years!! Incredible!!

26-50, Female, BT10