Stage Beyond does Brecht – award-winning Derry theatre company tours The Caucasian Chalk Circle

Presented by the award-winning inclusive theatre company Stage Beyond and supported by National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, this bold new adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's classic masterpiece premieres at The Playhouse, Derry, on Thursday, June 4 at 7pm, before touring to An Grianán Theatre, Letterkenny, on Friday, June 5 at 7pm and concluding with a relaxed performance at Hawk's Well Theatre, Sligo, on Monday 8 June at 2pm.

And if you think Brecht sounds serious, think again.

This fast-paced, hour-long production combines ensemble storytelling, music, movement, visual theatre and even a surprising number of yoga mats to create a unique theatrical experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Featuring a cast of around 20 performers with learning disabilities from across the North West, the production is packed with imagination, humour, energy and more than a little rock 'n' roll spirit.

Director Kate Guelke explained that the company's distinctive rehearsal process helped inspire some of the show's most memorable visual moments.

"We wanted to create a sustainable production using what we already had available to us, and that's how yoga mats ended up becoming one of the stars of the show," she said.

"I was inspired by Stage Beyond's practice of beginning rehearsals with yoga, and audiences will be amazed by the many inventive ways the company transforms these everyday objects throughout the performance."

For the past several months, the cast have worked tirelessly to bring this ambitious production to life. Through dedication, creativity and teamwork, they have created a show that demonstrates the artistic excellence, talent and commitment that Stage Beyond has become renowned for over almost 25 years.

Artistic Director Dee Conaghan said: "Our cast have worked incredibly hard and have embraced every challenge this ambitious production has presented. They have shown extraordinary creativity, commitment and passion throughout the rehearsal process.

"We would love audiences to come along, support their work and experience what promises to be a truly special evening of inclusive community theatre."

Based on Brecht's celebrated play, The Caucasian Chalk Circle tells the story of Grusha, a young woman who risks everything to protect an abandoned child during a time of war and upheaval. Along the way, audiences are invited to reflect on timeless questions of justice, responsibility, compassion and what it means to care for others.

At its heart, however, this production is a celebration of creativity, inclusion and the power of theatre to bring people together. Whether you're a regular theatre-goer, curious about Stage Beyond's work, or simply looking for an entertaining night out, this unique production promises an unforgettable experience filled with imagination, laughter, music and heart.

Supported by National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the production reflects Stage Beyond's ongoing commitment to creating ambitious, high-quality theatre while championing the talents and voices of performers with learning disabilities.

Performance Dates

The Playhouse, Derry Thursday 4 June | 7pm £10

An Grianán Theatre, Letterkenny Friday 5 June | 7pm €12

Hawk's Well Theatre, Sligo Monday 8 June | 2pm Relaxed Performance – Free Admission (advance booking advised).