Full Breakdown
Addressing Gender-Based Violence Through Theatre in Northern Ireland
4/10/2026, 7:34:29 AM
Overview of the Play 'Called Out'
The one-man show 'Called Out' has recently been performed for approximately 1,500 schoolchildren and young people in Northern Ireland, aiming to raise awareness about toxic behavior towards women and gender-based violence. The production, which concluded its run at the Craic Theatre in County Tyrone, explores the dynamics between two best friends, Conor and Aidan, as they confront a situation where one crosses a line. The play seeks to provoke thought and discussion among young audiences regarding their roles as bystanders in instances of violence.
Impact on Young Audiences
Audience members have reported significant personal reflections following their viewing of 'Called Out.' Caelum Devlin, a 20-year-old student, expressed that the play has altered his perspective on certain behaviors he has witnessed, highlighting the relevance of its themes in light of current societal issues, including misogyny prevalent on social media. Fourteen-year-old Lillyanna noted the play's ability to resonate with her own experiences, emphasizing the importance of addressing seemingly minor behaviors before they escalate into more serious issues.
Production Insights
The play was produced by Wee Yarn Productions and co-produced by Craic Theatre, with direction by Aoibh Johnson-Clarke. The script, authored by her husband Cahal Clarke, was designed to reflect men's experiences and attitudes towards violence against women. Johnson-Clarke emphasized the necessity of including a female perspective, which was achieved through the incorporation of audio extracts from real accounts of women who have survived abuse. This element of the production has reportedly left a profound impact on audiences, creating a moment of silence during performances.
Context of Gender-Based Violence in Northern Ireland
The urgency of the play's message is underscored by alarming statistics, with 30 women violently killed in Northern Ireland since 2020, predominantly at the hands of men known to them. This context has fueled the play's mission to encourage young men to engage in discussions about their complicity in such behaviors. Johnson-Clarke noted that feedback from the production has revealed many young men are beginning to critically examine these issues for the first time.
Official Statements & Responses
The production has received positive feedback from schools, with reports of young women coming forward to disclose experiences of abuse after attending the play. Johnson-Clarke views 'Called Out' as a catalyst for change and empowerment, not only in County Tyrone but across Northern Ireland. The play was commissioned by Mid Ulster Council in partnership with Craic Theatre, supported by the Education Authority as part of Stormont's Ending Violence Against Women campaign.
What's Next for 'Called Out'
While the initial run of 'Called Out' concluded at the end of March, there are hopes for a broader rollout across Northern Ireland. The production aims to continue fostering conversations about gender-based violence and encouraging proactive engagement among young audiences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was kind of speechless after it, it has definitely changed how I look at certain things and made me reflect on certain situations I've witnessed in the past,” — Caelum Devlin, Audience Member
- “I think the play probably has given me more confidence to speak out about that type of behaviour towards women and girls, and that's a very powerful message for people my age to hear.” — Lillyanna, Audience Member
- “The feedback has been amazing; a lot of young men have talked about how they're really thinking about these issues properly for the first time.” — Aoibh Johnson-Clarke, Director
