Comrades in the Dark by Caitlin Barnett Dance Co,

Friday 16th — Saturday 17th October

7:30pm

Comrades in the Dark contains themes of political imprisonment, torture, psychological deterioration and death by hunger strike. It is performed with testimony from former Republican prisoners and draws exclusively on the writing and experience of Bobby Sands and the 1981 hunger strikers.

The work presents one tradition’s account of the conflict in Northern Ireland. It does not attempt to represent multiple perspectives within the performance itself, created by the Caitlin Barnett Dance Company.

The piece: H Blocks. Belfast. 1981. Bobby Sands embarks on hunger strike in pursuit of political status. On day 66 he dies. Nine others die before the strike is called off.

This highly physical, contemporary dance explores the brutality and humanity contained within the poetry and prose, written secretly by Sands whilst behind bars. Accompanied live by the traditional Irish drum — the bodhrán — and the voices of former Republican prisoners, this politically charged show looks at themes of oppression, resistance and freedom, bringing to the forefront the historic and complex relationship between Ireland and Britain.

Care: We recommend that anyone with lived experience of the Troubles — from any community — considers carefully whether this work is right for them at this time. Support services are available before and after the performance and a list of external services will be made available on the night.

A post-show conversation will take place after each performance, providing space for questions and reflection, to which all attendees are warmly invited.