A Play About Welsh Rugby Player John Bevan Touches Down in Wigan
John Bevan Team Player-from Lions to League, will be performed for two nights in the Tomaco Lounge at The Brick Community Stadium this October.
Covering three pivotal years in the life of Welsh rugby legend John Bevan, the story begins with the British Lions triumph over the All Blacks in the1971 test series, it continues with the success of the Barbarians in 1973 and ends with Bevan’s first season playing rugby league for Warrington having switched codes. And in the 1970s that meant that there was no way back.
As Wigan says goodbye to Sir Billy Boston, it’s worth reflecting on the historic jeopardy of a union player switching to league. Going ‘North’ might lead to opportunity and glory, or an end to a life in rugby. Players could find themselves ostracized by their countries of birth
Writer Mari Lloyd said, “I’m fascinated by sport and how that links to history, heritage, national and regional identity.”
‘To us, it’s not just a game. It’s who we are’
The play asks questions about the outer trappings of success and looks at the more important inner feelings of self-worth and connection to a team, a place and a community. Personal success requires determination, but it takes a team to truly win.
The play has been performed in South Wales and at the Halliwell Jones Stadium as part of Warrington Wolves 150th anniversary celebrations. A further extension of the tour has been made possible by the support of Simon Moran S.J.M. Concerts, owner of Warrington Wolves.
“Having watched the play in Warrington, I was delighted to help get it more widely seen. The story of John is told brilliantly; I’ve been a fan of John since the first game I watched Warrington at Wembley in 1975“Simon Moran.
“This is a magnificent piece of theatre… Actor Scott Gutteridge delivers an absolutely stellar, powerhouse performance… Directed seamlessly by Julia Stubbs, the production balances raw athletic intensity with deeply personal, vulnerable reflections.” Warrington Worldwide
This new production builds on the successful first collaboration of playwright Mari Lloyd and director/producer Julia Stubbs. Produced by Still Here Productions and 20 South Street with Grey Swan
Creative Team: Written by Mari Lloyd, directed by Julia Stubbs, performed by Scott Gutteridge. Lighting by Jonathan Samuels, Sound design by Jamie Lu.
Event details: Tomaco Lounge 9th and 10th October at 7.00pmLoire Drive, Robin Park Road, Wigan WN5 0UH
RUNNING TIME: 95 minutes plus interval
POST-SHOW Q&A with the creative team and special guest John Bevan.
CONTENT INFORMATION: Suitable for 12+ | Brief strong language.
COMPANY WEBSITE: https://stillhereproductions.co.uk/john-bevan-team-player-from-lions-to-league/
Tickets are on sale now https://www.ticketsource.com/still-here-productions
