Callings

Written by Dominic Montague

Directed by Paula McFetridge

Charged with the iconic music of the era, and set amidst a storm of anti-gay headlines, Callings delves deep into the daily struggle for survival of the LGBTQI+ community and reflects on how even simple acts of connection can change the course of a life. 

The play follows the lives of Bridget, Helen, Martin, Jason, and Tommy – five gay/lesbian people who sought sanctuary and community through CaraFriend – a phoneline and befriending service set up in the 1970’s to support our hidden LGBTQ+ communities’.

Callings explores how these bright and resilient individuals found themselves and each other during oppressive times. In an era when the government attempted to quash their right to love, this group’s sheer existence was an act of resistance and joy. 

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

Callings does well to never feel too worthy or too laboured. It celebrates rurality, villages and towns as much as the brighter lights of Belfast.

Alan in Belfast , Independent Reviewer

It has moments of genuine pathos such as the first kiss between Cuchulain (aka ‘Tommy’, conveyed with sensitivity by the brilliant Simon Sweeney) and Jason (the equally good Christopher Grant). The story of Brigid, a young lesbian with a crush on Jamie Lee Curtis, who finds it tough to even articulate or say the ‘L-word’ is also very moving.

Jane Hardy – Irish News

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

Callings Tour 2022