Reflections on a Divided City

Reflections on a Divided City' is a new collection of short stories, poems and essays from the winners of the 2010 Reading & Reflecting New Writing Competitions held by Monaghan VEC (Youthreach). The project has been in place for the past two years, with funding secured from the EU's Peace and Reconciliation body, and involved an inter-school writing competition (of which I was judge) as well as an inter-school debating competition. Students were asked to read novels written on the subject of 'divided cities' such as Theresa Breslin's Divided City and the Joan Linguard Belfast-based Kevin & Sadie novels - and the submitted portfolios of work were all based on readings of these novels - as well as a number of others. The standard was staggeringly high - and the essays in particular were very strong. This book (which I've edited and introduce) brings together all the winning stories, poems, critical pieces and serves as an excellent commendation for the Monaghan students' work. The book is not for sale but if you would like a copy email me and I'll put you in touch with someone who will send you out a copy. It might be of interest to those of you who work with creative writing in a secondary school/youth setting. My email address is: jaki_mac@hotmail.com

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An excellent year for BELFAST GIRLS

In 2019 there were two magnificent productions of BELFAST GIRLS - and a reading of the play in Washington DC. BELFAST GIRLS premiered in August in Australia, at the Q Theatre in Queanbeyan, New SouthWales. Produced by Echo Theatre and directed by Jordan Best, this production did fantastically well and received a number of glowing reviews. I was so sorry to miss it and really hope that Jordan and the cast get to do it again. Here are some shots from this beautiful show: The next production was by the Swedish company, Batalj Scenkonst and this took place in Stockholm in November. This production marks the first production of the play in translation and luckily I was able to attend the opening night. Malin Erikson directed an absolutely stunning cast and I thought this was an incredibly beautiful show. Very physical and visual, with brilliant use of lighting and music. Even though I don't speak or understand Swedish I was completely moved by this show and really ho...

The Genesis of Belfast Girls

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International Reviews of BELFAST GIRLS

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