‘Goodbye Jolene’ by Siobhán Nicholas, is a play with songs, featuring country music alongside sixteenth century choral compositions. It is set to have its world premiere in Hove on July 6, before touring theatres around the south east.
The play, which will be performed by acclaimed Brighton-based company Take the Space, follows Care worker Niamh who quits her job after Covid, determined to change her life.
“It’s about a woman who finds inspiration, courage and strength through music.”
Siobhán Nicholas
Nicholas, who is based in Brighton, was inspired by her Auntie Mary, who sadly suffered from dementia but who could still communicate via music.
“In the care home my lovely vibrant aunt became someone who wasn’t able to communicate with the outside world – but one day when I started to sing, she remembered my name.
“I took out my mobile phone and started singing along to one of her favourite country songs. To my delight, she started smiling. Not only that but suddenly she seemed to recognize me and when a nurse gently asked her who I was – clear as a bell, she answered ‘Siobhán’.
“It reminded me of the healing power of music and how music stirs memory and I knew I had to write a play around that idea.”
The world premiere of ‘Goodbye Jolene’ will be at The Old Market in Hove on 6th July 2023 at 7.30pm, before touring to five more venues in southeast England throughout the summer and autumn.
Tickets cost £19 and are available from The Old Market box office on 01273 201 801, or via www.theoldmarket.com
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