Arts Live bring the 2018 Scotsman Fringe First award-winning show, DUPed, to Dumfries & Lochans for two exclusive performances.
The play is based upon interviews the playwright and performer John McCann conducted with campaigners, journalists and activists from across the North of Ireland. It explores the history and continuing impact of Ian Paisley’s DUP.
McCann travelled from Fife to his childhood home in County Armagh, speaking with individuals who felt persecuted by the DUP’s conservative, socio-political and religious rhetoric.
DUPed concludes with the playwright attempting to have conversations he never thought he could. He met with DUP politicians, an Orange Order District Master and a Free Presbyterian Minister. What he heard was a complex mix of tired talking points, deeply held convictions, how Brexit is the fulfilment of Biblical prophecy, historical revisionism and thankfully, hope.
The 2020 Arts Live programme is bringing exciting local, national and international performances to the region in village halls, pubs, theatres and arts centres making performance art accessible to all; working with local venues, artists and promoters to ensure each community has a directional voice in regards to performing arts within the region.
Tickets can be purchased from www.ticketsource.co.uk/dgartsfestival or at The Midsteeple Box Office, High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BH, T: 01387 253383.
Reviews of the Scotsman Fringe First Award-winning DUPed:
“McCann is a clear and evocative storyteller, and the journey he takes us on is captivating – yet the real power of his play is in its finale.”
The Scotsman, August 2018 ****
“DUPed is a masterpiece in conversational storytelling.”
Edinburgh Festivals Magazine, August 2018 *****
Reviews of the Scotsman Fringe First Award winning SPOILING by John McCann, Traverse Theatre 2014
The Herald **** The Scotsman **** The Times **** The Stage ****
“chippy, hate-fuelled sectarianism…manipulative rant…” The Spectator, September 2014
“It now feels like an act of prophecy.” The Spectator, May 2015
