A Play About Welsh Rugby Player John Bevan Touches Down in Hull
John Bevan Team Player-from Lions to League, will be performed for two nights in the Legends lounge at Sewell Group Craven Park this October.
The play covers three pivotal years in the life of Welsh rugby legend John Bevan. Starting 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.
It’s worth reflecting on the jeopardy a union player put his career in by switching to League in the past. Clive Sullivan was one such player, finding increased opportunity and success at both Hull FC and Hull KR.
But the risks were great. Going ‘North’ could lead to opportunity and glory, or an end to a life in rugby. Even your country of birth could ostracize you.
Writer Mari Lloyd said, “I’m fascinated by sport and how that relates 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.
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” said 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.” Review by 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: LEGENDS LOUNGE 12th October 7.00pm
Sewell Group Craven Park, Preston Road, Hull HU9 5HE
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:
John Bevan: Team Player – from Lions to League
Tickets are on sale now
https://www.ticketsource.com/still-here-productions
ENDS
