Theatre of Witness showcased at groundbreaking Peace conference in Brussels

Taking the first ever theatre performance from Northern Ireland to the European Parliament, the visionary project was held up as an example of best practice for conflict and post conflict countries throughout the world.

Theatre of Witness representatives presented their innovative work at a reception hosted by the First and Deputy First Ministers of NI at a prestigious conference hosted by Special EU Programmes Body.

The ‘Bringing Divided Communities Together’ conference was set up to showcase how EU supported projects have helped to reinforce peace and stability within Northern Ireland.

The conference was spearheaded by EU Commissioner Johannes Hanh, who was introduced to Theatre of Witness when visiting Londonderry in June 2011. He was so impressed that he developed the event to showcase the many successful peace projects in NI.

Theatre of Witness founder Teya Sepinuck, Playhouse founder Pauline Ross and performer James Greer’s powerful presentation was received with great accolades.

“The trip was so productive and inspiring!” said Teya Sepinuck.

“It is hoped that our presentation will be taken on the road throughout the EU. We are excited to begin building new relationships and are very grateful to the EU Peace III Programme not only for our fourth year of funding, but also for the visibility being afforded us.”

Teya and James spoke to and performed for 270 delegates from countries such as: Northern Ireland, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, United Kingdom, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, Israel, Libya, Morocco and South Korea. Teya showed film clips from “We Carried Your Secrets’ and I Once Knew a Girl,’ and James recreated an excerpt from original Theatre of Witness part about being a former terrorist.

EU Commissioner Johannes Hanh said: “Their passionate commitment and determination are truly laudable. This is why I wanted to bring their experience to Brussels. I believe other parts of the world may be able to learn from their work.”

The Playhouse Theatre of Witness project is supported by the European Union’s PEACE III Programme managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by the Community Relations Council/Pobal Consortium. For more information on this project please check out the website on www.theatreofwitness.org.For more information on the conference please go to www.seupb.eu