Theatre festival comes to Londonderry

26 February 2009 -

Londonderry, also known as Derry, is due to host a prestigious theatre festival next month.

The 29th City of Derry Drama Festival will run from March 6th to 14th and take place in the city's Waterside Theatre.

Nine amateur drama companies will be presenting a wide range of plays including The Pillowman and The Lonesome West written by Martin McDonagh, Sive by John Keane and True West by Sam Shephard, in a bid to secure a professional production.

Festival organiser Marie Dunne told Culture in Northern Ireland: "Let there be no mistake, these are experienced, award-winning groups, many of whom have been performing on the circuit for decades."

She added that actors will use the occasion to hone their skills before moving on to other dates on the festival circuit.

Earlier this month, Northern Ireland arts minister Gregory Campbell stated that Mute Meadow, an installation designed by Vong Phaophanit and Claire Oboussier, will help lead regeneration in Londonderry, after it won the Foyle Public Art Project to create a piece of work for Ebrington.