CityLife

'Meanwhile' by Colin Connor

IF there was a flaw to this rehearsed reading, it was that it was too short – writing and performance as accomplished as this deserve a full-scale production.

The story, set at the time of the IRA hunger strikes, moves between the real, documented words of an IRA prisoner, and a local teenagers’ football team. The contrasting situations of the characters are drawn into a common perspective by the random brutality of everyday life in the period.

Colin Connor’s writing is evocative and compelling, his characters convincing and beguiling. He has created a piece that has depth and poignancy, while never losing its lighter edge.

What was perhaps unexpected was the standard of the performance given – not a simple seated reading of the material but a passionate and masterful delivery from the whole cast that immersed the audience in the action.

Paul Mallon in particular was exceptional, authentic as a starving prisoner, a teenage footballer, or a local rabble-rouser. Christine Wilson and Conor McKee were also excellent.

The Not Part Of festival has highlighted some commendable talent, and this play deserves attention from a wider audience – all those involved are worth watching out for in the future.

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