One-man show gets the devil dancing

03 Feb 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

A one-man show that is both funny and moving will shine a light on growing up as a boy marginalised by perceived societal ‘norms’.

‘The Devil Danced in Our Eyes’ explores sexuality and the effects of mental illness on a family.

Told against a background of original live music and animation, the must-see show, has received rave reviews. It has been brought to Northumberland by the County’s Library Service to mark LGBT+ History Month.

Audiences will meet 15-year-old Jamie whose mum stopped coming out of her room when his Granda died – leaving the boy spending more and more time online - scrolling through the Internet and the occasional adult chat room…

‘The Devil Danced in Our Eyes’ stars Jonluke McKie and is semi-autobiographical. He explained: “I’m a queer artist who grew up in a ‘benefit class’ home in Sheffield.

“I wanted to tell the story of a young person like me, growing up on the margins of society, exploring his sexuality on the internet, which is both liberating and ultimately unsafe.

“The end result is half gig, half play, and I’m delighted to be bringing it to libraries in Northumberland.”

Councillor Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Culture, Heritage and Libraries, said: “This is a very creative piece of theatre which is an emotional journey that will entertain, engage and enlighten and its audiences.

“We at Northumberland County Council believe it is important to celebrate diversity of all kinds and to let our LGBT+ residents and their families know that is the case.

“There are a limited number of tickets so booking ahead of time is advised.”

As well as featuring the soulful voice of Jonluke ‘The Devil Danced in Our Eyes’ features animations created and projected live each night by Simon Cole. It was co-written by Jonluke and Allison Davies and is directed by Amy Golding.

Tickets costing £3 are on sale for performances at Blyth Library on Wednesday, February 15 at 6.30pm and at Cramlington Library on Thursday February 16, also at 6.30pm. To book go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/the-devil-danced-in-our-eyes-1423099