Splash of colour for ‘I Shall Wear Purple’

The comedy ‘I Shall Wear Purple’ will be staged at the Grand Opera House this spring. It will be performed by of Northern Ireland’s leading theatre companies, c21.

This promises to be a scintillating, hilarious black comedy. It follows Olivia and Thomas who find themselves in Malinderry Care Home for very different reasons – one tries everything to escape while the other never wants to leave.

Kickstarting a Northern Ireland wide tour, ‘I Shall Wear Purple’ will run at the Grand Opera House Belfast from Tuesday, February 26 to Saturday, March 2, followed by a six-show tour across the province.

‘I Shall Wear Purple’ is the fifth collaboration between writer, Rosemary Jenkinson and the c21 Theatre Company, and is directed by co-founder of c21, Stephen Kelly, and produced by Tom Rowntree-Finlay. It stars the renowned Stella McCusker as the headstrong and compassionate Olivia, alongside Patrick McBrearty as footloose dreamer Thomas.

Ahead of the tour, Director and Co-founder of c21 Theatre Company, Stephen Kelly said he is very privileged to be working with Rosemary and Tom on this production.

“Rosemary has tapped into the myriad of issues facing many in today’s society. Purple symbolises ‘spirit’ which is something both our characters have in abundance, and it’s the kindred spirit they find in each other which proves that age really is just a number.

“Given her links with local theatre in Northern Ireland, we are thrilled to have Stella McCusker as part of our production.  For those that remember her appearance in ‘Lovejoy’ and more recently ‘Game of Thrones’ this really is quite a coup.

“Likewise, Patrick McBrearty will add much value and distinction to the production with his charm and presence on stage,” he said.

Writer, Rosemary Jenkinson, said although the play deals with the realities of life’s journey, it’s a rallying cry for the arts, and the main component to take away is how someone from a different background can completely transform your outlook on life.

“We want the audience to sympathise with these two people in their plight, while seeing the funny side and willing them to swallow their pride and accept help from each other,” she added.

The production is supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through National Lottery Funding.

Damian Smyth, Head of Drama and Literature, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said he is delighted to see the play tour regionally, helping to bring great art to everyone.

‘I Shall Wear Purple’ is also proudly sponsored by Belfast City Council and Doyle Shipping Group. Performances take place from February 26 to March 2 at the Grand Opera House, Belfast followed by six shows in venues throughout Northern Ireland.

Tickets are on sale now at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, contact 028 9024 1919 or online via www.goh.co.uk. Make sure to like c21 Theatre Company on Facebook and follow on Twitter for exclusive updates and show information.