We would like to share some reflections and feedback given by people who came to witness our  productions, We Carried Your Secrets and I Once Knew A Girl...If you would like to share a thought yourself please feel free to contact us.

Feedback for I Once Knew A Girl...:

"That was very beautiful. Women's strength and love are amazing when we stand together. I feel honoured to have heard your stories. I'm recommending this to my mum and her prayer group. They'll see you in Omagh, I hope."

"I am a 17 year old girl from Donegal. Before coming to study here 1 month ago, I knew very little about the history of Northern Ireland. I can't explain how or why your production has affected me, but it has. I thank every woman who had the courage to share their story tonight. It was not in vain."

"I felt it was truly moving. An insight into people's extraordinary lives, that unfortunately are treated as taboo. Also can be treated as a weakness for females. However, it displayed enormous strength & was a valued ‘performance' or insight. Inspiring! Thank you."

"It was so gentle of a performance, and really brought a human element to our past, and most importantly the often-silent female voice. These women are extremely brave. Thank you for your courage, it has really inspired me."It draws from the deepness of human experience and in that calls strangers, friends, our fellow human beings into our commonalities, and it shows us how that pain can help us grow. Thank you.

"I appreciated the way you did not stop with all the other facets of this story but also ... with faith. Using the text "your people will be my people and your God my God" resonates deeply. And the prayer "Lord, may he be an instrument of Your peace" also resonates across the cultural divide in ways that go beyond culture."

"Thank you to all the women who collectively shared your stories, together. It is beautiful to see reconciliation at work before my eyes, not just in the play but in life. I appreciate your beautiful vulnerability. I am also a college student from America, I study abroad and so I thank you for sharing with me. You are all beautiful and loved. May you know you are worthy in Jesus' eyes. For He is our savior. I pray that you will dive in that truth. Thank you."

"The single most powerful event of theatre and witness I've seen in my life. Important to a local conversation, but to a much wider one as well. And the work on and with women is so powerful, so important, so healing. In gratitude."

"A very powerful performance, which in many ways illustrated tragedy but has successfully lifted the spirits of many and made hope shine through. Excellent!"

"If women had been given a voice at the beginning perhaps all of the deaths and hunts would not have happened."

"It was wonderful to see catholic and Protestant women working together on this project. The story of Ruth was particularly poignant - "Your people will be my people, and your God my god." Thank you for that message, and thank you for being brave and vulnerable enough to share that message through your stories."

"To all who have shared their stories: Thank you. Thank you for sharing your pain and your struggle, because there is healing in it. As a sheltered woman from another country, I have been blessed to hear your voice - the one that does not get put in the history books, but one that is in some ways common to all. "Your God shall be my God" are hopefully going to be words that will heal. God bless you as you tell your story and continue on in life!"

"Thank you so much for the stories you have told. They were so inspirational and give me hope for peace. I was so moved by the way the stories were told and how much love the women shared for each other and people they have never met. It shows God's love and hope for all his creation. Thank you."

"A huge thank you to all you brave women! I cried, I was very moved. Brave, honest women, all of you! I feel honoured to have been a witness, privileged to have been part of this most powerful experience. It deserves to be performed everywhere! Keep Teya in Ireland, she is doing such valuable work. May this work and this process help in healing the pain - from the Troubles, from rape, sexual abuse, domestic violence. In solidarity with you all - and in hope and trust for a better future! From a rape survivor in Donegal"What do you say to a person who has lived a life so utterly different from your own? A life that may have been destroyed while yours was flourishing. What do you say to a woman? Perhaps it is easier to stand in solidarity, to understand what it means to be a woman. I have only known a life that is privileged, and I've chosen to study conflict and tragedy from a distance, and I am now entering a time in my life when I'm supposed to translate my education into action. Every single woman in this program has provided a unique form of encouragement for me, to remember to be brave, speak up, be kind and truthful. I hope to be as active and courageous as each and everyone of you. I was happy to hear about your insight about storytelling. Perhaps this is something I will explore and utilize back home in the States to help other women and men whose stories have yet to be told and heard. Someone should write a book about this group. Maybe I will."

"So brave. So beautiful. Such beauty, grace and honesty. Such friendship."

"Very overwhelming, thank you so much for your courage, you brave lovely ladies. Please keep sharing your voices. Bless you all."

"Absolutely fantastic. You 5 women are a part of the bravest women I have ever had the pleasure to hear and see. Thank you so much for sharing your stories."

"I work as a support worker from Women's Aid. Girls, you are strong and inspiring, believe in your true self and talking is healing. Coming together as women is the greatest gif tin life, and together we have so many roles to carry - a mother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt. It goes on, the most important role is loving yourself, and keep living, and be the voice for every other women who is yet to speak her truth."

"The most amazing thing I have aver seen. Words cannot describe it. Very powerful and beautifully done. It makes me proud to be a woman and I feel blessed that I was able to share these women's experiences."

"I feel very humbled by this experience of hearing all these women tell their stories. They are all very admirable for being so brave and open to us as an audience. It's a very important event and hopefully it can inspire more people in similar situations to be as open with their own experiences. Congratulations on a very inspiring and emotional project."

"Powerful. Respectful. Brave. Purely from an artistic viewpoint - did we need all the symbolism? The voices are the power."

"Moving and gives a good creative impression."

"Very powerful, so strong!"

"When you are living on adrenalin - reality is a deep, deep hole - this struck me. When Maria was talking it reminded me of my daddy and how I haven't seen him in my life."

"This is one of the most touching drama works I have seen. The strength of the women who generously shared their stories with us was amazing. I hear people around me crying, and the silent also as they followed the stories. Thank you all for being so brave - what was said is reflected in many peoples' lives in this locality. I wish you success with the rest of the tour and in your personal lives."

"I think you are all so brave, such touching stories. I can remember very vividly the story of Patsy Gillespie. I live in Donegal. Near the border, a place called Burt. Some stories stay with you even if you were not near the Troubles. The story of Patsy Gillespie will always be remembered. May God bless you all."

"I salute each and every one of you for having true courage to come on a stage and share your story with us. I don't think that I have come across something so powerful and I am privileged to have heard it. Thank you."

"Very emotional show. Full of beauty and understated symmetry. Stories very moving and show the resilience of the women and inner beauty."

"Excellent! What wonderful strong women. Makes me glad to be a Northern Irish woman. Your stories are inspirational. Thank you for sharing. An Irish mother and her neighbour"

"I feel a lot of movement in my heart right now - sadness and celebration. Thank you for creating a thing of such great and delicate beauty out of such sadness and survival. And for everything, ladies, thank you."

"A brought awareness to me about how many we meet each day who maybe dealing with some "story" or other yet I live in my little bubble and get on with it. It has opened my eyes. Let's hope I can keep them open and be aware. Thank you."

"Wonderful. I have never seen anything like it in my life. God bless you all and may what you did and said tonight prove fruitful and loving everlasting peace."

"This was wonderful. We can all know what you are going through as all families have been touched, especially my own. Keep up the good work; women will win through the end to bring peace."

"Thank you. It was for me an experience never to be forgotten. As a person coming from the Middle East I was hoping that your world is now full of roses, but I realise the long road to go. I know from home that only dialogue and understanding can do something to improve the future for our children and grandchildren. I admire your brave women for sharing the way they did on stage. God be with you. Amit Beshen - Jerusalem - Israel."

"I am speechless - wonderful, heartfelt stories - everybody should hear these stories - unfortunately there is lots more out there. Keep telling your stories again and again. Shout them out."

"This was the most moving experience of my life! I understand the Troubles and all the losses etc. I loved every minute of it and I would love to see more. I give it a ten out of ten in excellence. GCSE student, Sacred Heart College, Omagh"

"It was a very emotional performance by you all. Very beautiful women. I came with my daughter and could relate to some things in the performance. I find it heart to find the words to explain how I feel, but I am very honoured to have come to hear your voices: we are all children of God, no matter what or who we are. May God bless you all."

"As a spectator who is coming from "outside" (Austria) and who has not been personally effected by the Troubles, I'm still very impressed by the courage that enabled these women to tell their sad stories on stage. It must have been a moving, and hopefully healing, process. All the best and God bless you all."

"Stuck for words really. Think that everyone who has been affected by these issues should see the show. They can learn that there is another way to cope. I'm sure there are dark days in your life though never lose sight of the fact that you have a positive role to play in peoples' lives. Augher, County Tyrone."

"I feel really touched by what you's ladies have achieved. This experience has given me the strength to get through the things that I have to deal with, especially my past and my view on the protestant community. Never give up what you's are doing. You's are beautiful women with big hearts which were broken in different ways, but now they seem fixed and unbreakable. Shauna Murphy. God bless xox."

"It was greatly put together. Really moving. The use of the film was a good way to show the peace in your hearts."

"This piece of theatre was quiet, emotional and I personally feel the water worked well as it made overall atmosphere more relaxed."

"Piece was very moving, like the recurring image of water."

"Each and everyone of you are truly amazing. Your heartfelt stories will touch the lives of many! Thank you"Powerful, profound, I feel proud to be a woman. Thank you for the honour of listening to your stories. I feel hopeful about the future.

"Very emotional. As a 66 year old from Dungannon, I had forgotten what it was like living through the "troubles'. Brought back painful memories. Congratulations to the artistic director and thanks to all those brave women who were prepared to share their stories. Thank you all."

"Thought provoking. Engaging. At times depressing but for the right reason if you know what I mean. Brilliant. Heart warming. Touching."

"Very powerful. Thank you for your courage telling your stories. You represent the enormous pain and courage of so many in our country. I feel honoured and enriched and determined to keep working for a better future for our children."

"Immense courage. Very moving. Truthful, emotional production. Forgiveness is the key."

"It was brilliant. There was a lot of stuff that I can relate to my life. Very very good."

"Deeply moving - reality that hits home. Why? Why? Why? The web of lies and deceit become the threads of hope in women. Free to dance and speak and cause change - outer change and inner change. Then and now and now is new. Thank you women."

"I feel a Part of everyone of you. God bless. As women we are one...."

"Superb production. Fantastic women with courageous stories. Not a dry eye when Kathleen was talking. A testimony to valiant spirits."

"I am beyond words. A Truly Moving Production. I have empathy and can feel a part of your pain also. May God Protect and take care of you all."I was very touched and impressed by your performances. It is very brave to share such personal experiences with an unknown audience and I think it is a good opportunity for women with similar stories to find peace at last.

"I am a man who doesn't know what to say.
I am now given images of things that have not only happened but happen. I would not like to thank you - to thank someone is to accept that you feel proud or happy. I do not feel proud of the human race.
Things I know, I understand, accept even. But still I know not what to say or think.
You are not the only group of people I've seen do something like this. So , that said, you are not alone in the world. But I suppose you know that already.
I am also a man who feels lost and almost feels like I'd rather go through hell than not see anything at all. At least I could understand people like you, and have something to say. I know how wrong I am nut not why. But all the respect to you."

"Thank you. It was a very moving evening. I am not Irish. My move to this country has been very recent and my knowledge of the troubles has been 2nd (or 3rd) hand. It was a very moving evening to hear these stories and the effects these events have had on people's lives for decades. To listen to stories from ‘both sides' must be good for everyone who hopes for a peaceful united community. Thank you again for the opportunity to listen."

"This was very touching! I am from Germany and thus it was a great experience for me to hear some true stories about the Troubles (apart from what is written in history books and what we learn in our lectures). I think it is brave of you to stage this!"

"The real people who had that little bit of space (the stage) are the people whose voices will be heard. This night was very real, very good. The survivors of the ‘Troubles' and how their message was carried to all. Thank you all."

"I came to get another sheet because I wanted to keep the other one. On it is so beautiful and pure like what I've heard tonight. Pure because of the truth of living out your life - not perfectly but bringing your life to perfection through reflection and connection. Thank you all so much.

"I sat amongst the audience and I listened to the true life stories of these wonderful ladies unfold. I felt totally humbled and deeply saddened to hear their stories. I am all the more richer for having been here tonight. It was a fantastic night, what a great credit you all are to yourselves and families and communities. Thank you so much."

"I Once Knew a Girl... I was aware of the fact that some people or maybe mostly some people have gone through sorrows and hardships but it's really nice and it feels great when you're touched by the grief and sadness people share around you. It feels that you are not alone, there is always someone to standby and there's always someone to hold you tight and let you know that Everything will be fine. Thanks a lot for this experience."I admire your courage and strength. All of your performances were heartfelt and heart wrenching. I have never experienced what you women have been though but I know that there are plenty who have. I came with a friend here tonight as she is going through a very difficult time. We didn't know what this was about or what to expect. But something made us all come and see your performance. I truly believe that your strength and power to deal with and move on with your lives will help her tremendously. I believe that you have all helped her to take the next step and begin speaking about and dealing with her problems. Thank you all for helping my friend."

"I felt that all the stories have a personal message for everyone. It makes you really think about everything and put it under a retrospect of your own life. The women on stage are so brave and strong to be able to share their stories with us."

"As I am from Germany I wasn't very well informed about the position of women during the troubles. But somehow I was able to identify myself as part of women society. It was very moving... Thank you so much for putting the theatre on stage. It was different but it was authentic!"

"Absolutely amazing. Couldn't believe how real the stories were. Mrs Gillespie's story was the most touching and effective as her emotion shown through."

"Very powerful - and a great testimony to the possibility and probability of reconciliation - but that is a journey that demands consequence, faith and persistence - living examples are IMPORTANT drama is a good way to tell the stories."

"Unbelievable powerful stories, so hard to describe how it makes me feel. Well done being able to stand up and talk about these tragedies and traumas. I hope you all are on your way to recovery - it takes a lot of time to get over to the extent you can function normally again without hate/anger/ frustration/questions/vengeance. I hope this will empower other people to talk about their experiences and help their recovery."

"Such powerful stories. So well told. Such strong women. Emotional. Giving power to many women who will hopefully get the strength to speak out about abuse. Continue the good work you are all doing. The positive feeling to come out of something so tragic will no doubt go on to help others."

"Excellent - very well produced. We trust your real life stories will bring reconciliation and hope to many."

"Really good. Was really eye opening and was worth watching. Very sad stories."

"This was just excellent. Very moving - would have been dramatic if done by actresses but to be done by the actual people who lived and experienced this - how brave and how good of you to do this. Really brought to my consciousness how the things we hear on the news and the people involved at different levels are real human beings suffering at various levels. While are of sexual abuse and domestic violence also covered so well. Thanks for bringing all these things to us to make us more aware, more human, more compassionate."

"Such strength, wisdom and vision your stories have made my mind swell to the point of bursting. I have a terrible headache now which will dissipate as I process your pain and courage on the next days and weeks. Thank you so much for being such wonderful leaders in our community. All power to you."

"Witnessing others pain is always difficult. You are all very brave, very normal in very unnaturally brutal situations. Trauma is like cancer so damaging, devastating. I too find life difficult, but like you all I will strive and survive. Thank you for sharing. It's important to hear and acknowledge the difficult hurting times. I wish you all love."

"I cannot say it was ‘enjoyable' but I do feel very moved by the whole experience. Wonderful to listen to such honest moving stories from real people. It should be a must do experience for anyone who wants to live in Northern Ireland. Thank you for providing a heartfelt insight into lives changed/shaped by the troubles."

"All ladies and true stories were brilliant. Can identify so much with some of the parts. Particularly the abuse of my ex-husband. Got out of the relationship and never have been happier. I have great family relations now that I wasn't allowed to have and been verbally, physically, mentally tortured but I got strength in 2005 and never looked back. Thank you ladies."

 

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Feedback for We Carried Your Secrets:

"Very powerful, very necessary, very well produced, stunning people. The most basic truth "We see things as WE are". Congratulations to all. A very brave production and performance!"

"Tonight I came here with views on things I thought I understood, I made judgements on things I thought I understood but tonight I realised I had no idea about things except through a sort of narrow, clinical, microscopic tunnel vision based on facts and figures and dates in subjective history. Tonight these judgements have been shattered and I have been left, not knowing how I feel but I hope that now I can look at things in the future with new eyes based on hope and forgiveness and new awareness. Thank you"

"Very moving. Let's hope it reaches everyone that needs reached by it. Thank you all."

"This was amazing. I'm shaking. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for sharing your stories with us. For being part of this programme. For giving so much of yourself to us and for letting me see myself in you. You are brave and your bravery is what will bring us to a new reality in Northern Ireland. This was ...; I don't have the words. Maybe I am just one of those who are too used to silence to know the right words now. Thank you just seems not close enough."

"I am so privileged to have been able to be a part of the audience for this show - I came, thinking that I did not have any story of the Troubles for myself, and spent most of the night in tears as all the random memories came to the surface that I never thought were any part of this story. I cried during the drumming. It was the saddest part of the whole evening for me. It was beautiful. I'll be thinking now myself of the difference between a story and a memory."

"We can't imagine how difficult it has been for everyone on stage to share these stories "memories" with us. The healing was evident. A very powerful and honest medium. Very emotional."

"I thought the show was very well put together as it gave a number of different views on the troubles then and now. As I am 23 you only seem to hear the main stories of the people and seem to forget about the memories that the families have to deal with on a daily basis. At the start of the show I did not understand what the drums resembled, but when he told his story, it made sense that this is how he deals with his pain. When some people are dealing with the pain everyday you also seem to forget that someone is trying to also forget their part for different reasons. I thought that all the performers did a wonderful job in telling their stories and would recommend that people see this show."

"I am a 16 year old girl from a protestant background. I have always had a knowledge of "Bloody Sunday" and paramilitaries but to me really they meant nothing. I think this was because I hadn't experienced them or really didn't want to know about paramilitaries / wars in depth. But, tonight really made me open my eyes and understand what a tough world it is. I am so thankful to these people for coming and sharing their experiences with me and the others and my heart really does go out to them. Be strong."

"Powerful. Must touch all our experiences."

"I found the play very interesting as it was an insight into REAL people's lives and it was REAL stories. It also gave the troubles from different points of views as the people were all from different backgrounds. It was a good REAL history lesson."

"Brilliant performance, hits deep, found it very emotional. As a victim of the troubles myself it was great to hear other stories and to hear people talk of their lives and feelings. I was in the Greysteel shooting in '93 and understood sure of what was said and interested in the stories of those who I felt were part of it."

"I left tonights performance with my eyes wide open. As a child moving to N.I. I only had my mother's side of the troubles if any. Small stories of things that had happened years ago which I really didn't understand. Still four years later at the age of 13 I hadn't a clue, a little bit more understanding but not much. My second day in a Catholic school and our bus was hit with stones. I didn't get why mum was so annoyed at the driver for leaving us in a protestant area. Small things started to register with me but didn't make a massive impact. Now 25 I know the ins and outs but nothing of the other side. Tonight gave me that. Thank you so much for giving me a new side to understand. As Chris did ask for people to speak up I couldn't but I felt I could write this to say thank you! I look forward to seeing the performance again and hopefully more stories in the future."

"I would like to tell you how many emotional movements my heart and soul made during this performance but it would be near impossible. I will take a point from the discussion method and use words: hope, love, growth, inspiration, sadness, history, education, joy, future. You are all very brave and very talented performers to demonstrate your emotion so openly to a crowd of strangers. Thank you so very much"

"Powerful. Raw. Brave. Universal in its impact. How can any of (us) writers create characters or purport to speak for the survivors when you speak so eloquently for yourselves? It is your words that will stay with us - "memories, not stories", to paraphrase Fionnbharr. Much has been explored on the impact on (my) generation who I wed the conflict. This is the first true voice I have heard from the generation of my daughter (who's 19) - what a reminder that they are the children of the alleged ceasefire, not of the peace, and there is a vast difference. You reminded us that it takes 7 generations to wade through conflict in a society. At best, I am generation 2. I prey for my unborn great, great, great-grand daughter or son. May s/he know true freedom.
On a professional level, the choreography and the staging were so imaginative and superb. "The stories of the women" - every success. I look forward to seeing it. Thank you, Teya. Thank you all."

"A Donegal woman, who could easily say that I was ashamed growing up from everything. The performance has had a profound effect on me! Thank you."

"This experience truly opened up the minds of myself and two nieces. It was a truly emotional experience. We were absorbed from the beginning. The entire cast were so brave. All the best with the next performances."

"I have never been so moved and touched by a performance. It was incredible on many levels. I have been to the Tower Museum and other museums and have tried to understand that history of Derry. But never have I seen it like that. The stories told are like none I've ever heard. Not just with their content but the emotion they were told with. To be able to stand on a stage and tell something so personal, I really admire the performers' courage. They have opened my eyes to a deeper understanding of the troubles than what I had just read about. Thank you for sharing...(girl, age 13)"

"Tell the truth it will release you. This was for me a great nite. I hope there will be more. I think this will go far to heal our people. We are much the same. We all hurt."

"Thank you all so much for the most inspirational, moving and powerful representation of Northern Ireland. I am from the south of Ireland and always thought my confusion about the troubles was because I didn't live in it. O realise tonight that maybe it was confusing too for all the people who did live in the thick of it. Tonight was an education for me. You are all such courageous people. Good luck with the rest of your journey!"

"Rites of Passage are denied to many young people in a world that is obsessed with holding onto old traditions and seeking to live forever...

The pain of these left behind knows no difference between dead combatants or crown families. How similar we look when we bare our souls."
"Robin Young. Powerful. The pain cuts so deep. For so many. Brought up so much buried "stuff". "Drop in Well", witnessing pain relief with ... from a soldier. Enniskillen bomb. Nursing through the truth, witnessing as Police/Army ... Bogside, not knowing fear, mixing with both sides, confusion, friends on both sides, boy friend RUC - not understanding - him, or impact on me and my family. At times...... due to not having knowledge, understanding. Fear at army/police, check points, worried about would your name fit/or where you like. Impact on children of N.I. A frozen N.I. Frozen lives, shattered opportunities. Thanks so much for bringing your secrets to Omagh. - so many layers to heal. But also fun times - wit and "black" comedy. And we had our good times also. Everybody has a story and we all have so much to learn. Respect and communication is key."

"A very moving and emotional performance. Congratulations to you all for your honesty - this is not always an easy thing to do. I have a message to Robin Young. - After the Omagh bomb my brother and I were the first 2 "civilians" allowed down that ghostly, deserted street (my family has a Dry Cleaner and we were going in to secure the premises) I am not sure if it was yourself, certainly your colleagues, that helped us through that very emotional time. My brother was caught up in the carnage and had a lot of fears - I can remember had been stationed in Portglenone and drafted in to help. I have always wanted to thank you all for your respect and the strength you gave to us that day. It will always remain with us both. Thanks to you all."

"Excellent and very emotional, especially Victoria's presentation as I am from Omagh and know her well. Everybody done an excellent job which was probably very hard to do and brought home lot of things us the public did not know about. Everybody hopes that it will be the last time we hear of serious happenings as Northern Ireland and all of its people need to move forward. We can't let our grand-children and their children grow up in what we did. It has to be HISTORY! Great eye opener! Great performance! Well done!"

"Oh my God, how very, very powerful. Is this truth not already forgiveness in its most beautiful form. I wish you were in schools, youth groups and 100 other places! I am on a personal and professional journey and your truth has just reminded me of why I am on it. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

"Fionnbharr's story spoke to me the most. He seemed to be the one who is still living his story, he doesn't seem to have any sense of closure, some of the others seem to have been better at contextualising and putting their story in "its place" as it were. Fionnbharr's pain is tangible. In general I thought the production was excellent, not over produced and the real people still real! Only criticism is that I found the music a bit distracting on occasions. They were all brave and brilliant, enchanting and captivating. I hope they all get as much out of it as me and I'm sure all the audiences are. Also would have loved to have heard more of Kieran's story."

"So much emotion - pain - turmoil. Reflects so much of my life has been and the erases I am bearing now. I am glad too that I had the chance to share their stories."

"Very powerful performance; moving. Look forward to discussion"

Thank you for the opportunity to listen to these powerful and moving stories. I am moved by the resilience of the human soul and spirit. This gives me hope for a future free from hate, intolerance and ignorance. I hope you can bring your production into schools and collages."

"A very moving experience. Congratulations to everyone involved in a great performance."

"It was heart breaking. Great reflection, it really hit home how I personally was affected by The Troubles. Educational, gave an insight to the civil rights movement."

"What does one say - powerful performance and hope the performers are looking after themselves. Lots and lots of lives affected which tends to have been forgotten about - the ripple effect."

"Profoundly moving as a person who always saw the troubles from afar; it gave me a close insight into peoples' feelings. Everybody should see this play, including other countries."

"Very moving, nice to see so many points of view. Thank you"

Brave. A well delivered, excellent media to provide voice. But still question of who is listening."

"To all the cast and production team. First, My heart felt. Thanks for your courage and vulnerability and humanity. Understand my own struggle to live with Post-traumatic stress, coming to terms again with the challenge to learn to simply be. To honour the sacredness of feeling, and the honesty of feeling. I studied for a drama degree recently in Magee. We studied "Drama" about the troubles. Everyone (of these younger than myself echoed the voice of the day) wanted to get away from studying the troubles and live. I had an idea that a play about the troubles or plays about the troubles needed to be performed as a determined focus of a framework for peace and reconciliation, by having a way in which after performance could be a forum for healing. What I have had the privilege to be present to here tonight. So I am sure a profound expression of the peace and reconciliation, of enabling others to move. Beyond that which is unspoken into that which is expressed in the expression of vulnerability and truth of an experience. It was real; the pain still is. I wish for you all good life and good health and lives filled with your passion. Thank you."

"That was the most powerful, moving theatre experience of my life. It is the only time that have ever cried in the theatre. I don't know what else to say."

"I'm fourteen years old. I'd need to see the performance again as I found it difficult to process. It was overwhelming and I got goose bumps hearing the stories. Thank you for the experience."

"(Very good). Great actors - very touching. I lived through these times in Dungiven - trained here in Derry - Derry people are lovely. I love them all. God bless you lovely people. xxx"

"A very, very powerful and moving drama and testimony. Everyone in Northern Ireland should see this and reflect. This is true Community Relations work as it should be."

"Excellent production - well done. It was balanced and gave some a voice that they wouldn't have had. My niece was killed in the Omagh bomb. I played the music at her funeral - she was 17 years old. I went to the wake of her 16 year old friend - her face was pitted by debris as she lay there. In 1994 I went to Jerusalem. I went out to buy a phone card. The guy in the Kiosk asked "Where are you from?" I said "Northern Ireland" He said "Tatti Zands" - I didn't get it 3 times - he was saying "Bobby Sands" - I said my stock answer. I don't believe in violence for political ends."

"A touching reflection on how the elite, through authorative structures, have once again divided and tore apart a people. Beautifully presented with honest passion, a very cathartic experience for me. Brave, honest, and put it on DVD - let the world see it."

"As a young guest from Germany, I wished we could discuss and reflect things in such a brave and open and direct way! All my respect to you for your powerful performance! Eckart from Berlin"

"I am from California, here visiting my son and family. This is the most moving thing I have ever seen. I only know a small bit about the Troubles, but this was universal, "people hurting other people". Thank you so much!"

"It has been a privilege to be part of this audience tonight. I wish you all the best for the future programme. This should be televised for a wider audience."

"It's hard to explain for me in English. It's a really strong story and you tell it in a really good way. I will never forget this. Keep up and be yourself. I'm speechless and that's not happen often."

"Very moving and thought-provoking. Fighting back tears through most of it. I identified most with Victoria's story. I am 25 years old and my father is Protestant, my mother Catholic. I laughed at the "cup or plate" thing, but in my school it was "pig or cat?" I spent most of my teenage years struggling to find where I could fit in. And because of my age I often wonder if my story is important - Brilliant to see the young people tell their stories also. I cried for everyone and I'm joyful that we've reached a point where it's ok to talk and share. Thank you"

"I've never experienced anything quite like tonight. So I really don't have the words yet. But I will say "thank you"."

I'm a Southerner married to a Northerner - I lived in peace with my neighbours. I only see mistrust in people up here. I love going home but I also love every minute of my life here - it is too precious to waste. We all want peace - god willing it will keep and go on. Thank you all."

"This was a powerful showing of how no matter what side you're on, violence hurts everyone. Humanizing these issues is so impactful. As an American here studying Peace and Conflict, this was a great experience. I thank all of the performers for their courage to stand up and tell their stories. It takes a lot of strength to confront such things. Thank you."

"Thank you for letting us into your worlds. Your stories are powerful and will lead the way to change and healing. It will inspire others to walk into your footsteps or to create their own."

"Very powerful presentation - thank you for your courage, honesty and acting standards. This should be compulsory viewing for all counsellors and all active political party activists."

"Excellent, well done, very brave people. xx"

"I suffered greatly for the pain people have had and was deeply moved. I did not suffer personally during the "troubles" but I suffered tonight listening and experiencing the pain and suffering of these people. May God forgive the perpetrators and may God heal and bless the entire cast and all that they represent throughout the country."

"Open and honest - brave and unbelievable. Very moving. Brought back memories. True life reality - SO SAD. How did people survive? I hope people listened and took it on board. Heartbreaking. Very well put together. Will have an effective outcome. Excellent, well done"

"This made me more determined than ever to get our children educated together."

"It's going to heart. It's making me cry. It's showing me how good is my life with small problems."

"Very moving. Soul-searching. I have a drink problem; want to change, about to lose everything because of it. This has given me great motivation to give it up. Well done".

"I loved it. There was so much emotion. Just from sitting in the audience. I felt I was going through everything that happened in the lives of those involved. I could only relate to the man in the funky converse. Drinking and smoking everyday, Dobbing School, going to exams (messed up)
It was interesting to see someone make a change who was following that lifestyle.
Although, I didn't speak up I do believe it made a difference. I'm a catholic teen, who studies honours level history. And in school it only mentions the killings and the rebellious. After tonight I seen the horror each family goes through and will never be too quick to look at the human side of each rising I read of. I was a nationalist before tonight now seeing the suffering on both sides not just on the catholic. I just want history to be history and move on.

P.s. for the dude in the cool converse, I love your shoes, jeans and Buckfast J"

"The drummer was amazing. And for the girl who is catholic and protestant. (She is a really good singer)".

"I thought this play was very moving. Each actor had a different story to tell. They were outstanding, Fionnbharr especially, I thought was extremely brave, to have the guts and the heart to go up onstage and tell his life story.

All in all I thought each character was extremely outstanding and to me it showed me that everyone has troubles in their life and even though the group is sharing the same play, individually they share a different aspect in life. I thoroughly enjoyed this and wish you well. Thank you"

"I wish I could take the pen home L I never really thought about the Troubles, never really cared. However, hearing your stories moved me and made me think twice, VERY WELL DONE!"

"(Sorry for the Essay)... (17 yrs old)
No matter how much I read, watch or otherwise stumble upon the dark stories of The Troubles, they never fail to shock me. Every story is different; every story affects a wide range of people, Brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, children, mothers, fathers, friends bereaved by the Troubles.
The term "war" has never been used in my experience, rarely been used in reference to The Troubles in Northern Ireland. The integration of the term in ‘We Carried Your Secrets' did reinforce for me the fact that Northern Ireland was a war torn zone and as much as we may think the war is over, the activities of dissidents in NI often render the war ongoing for many.

Another thing that the production reinforced for me was the fact that everyone in NI is a victim regardless of religion or political belief. These stories are the voice of everyone in Northern Ireland. They all share this history as one. One thing that pisses me off in 2009 is that this sectarianism is carried by youth who know nothing of the true brutality of The Troubles. They may preach about the IRA or the UVF, Bobby Sands or King Billy, but this is the conditioning of the past reflected upon a generation born into a more peaceful time with so much potential for reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Removing this predetermined divide which acts as a roadblock made of the youth of Northern Ireland will enable us to embrace the varied culture and talent from both sides of the political divide as one. ‘We Carried Your Secrets' was extremely touching and thought provoking for me. It was a further boot to my knowledge of the culture around me. Thanks guys"

"Firstly I have great gratitude for having been offered this experience made of experiences. I feel so grateful to the people who have shared their experiences. For helping me learn and grow and for doing this tremendously healing work, for I have no doubt that it is healing, on many levels. I wasn't sure if I would come tonight, being stuck into my own life. But then I just felt that I owed it. I'm English and my knowledge of the Troubles growing up was just schoolyard chat of bombs in Ireland and some mention of the famous IRA, and then the men on the news who had their voices dubbed. I felt if I were to stay away tonight, I would be sitting in a role that comes too easily to people where I'm from. I didn't want to sit in that role. I wanted to bear witness and I did feel I owed it.
I feel like, in England, and then in Buncrana where I live now, there can be a turning away from the Troubles and on the flipside, my relations from Belfast always talk about it, I feel somehow like people who have been through it might be able to let go of some things better once they've been witnesses and heard by people who need to hear them, and should hear them. I hope this production/process goes forward gathering support.

I believe that this production can right an injustice. I did English history and European history at A-Level. We looked at the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, Russia, Germany, Italy: nothing of Ireland. Not a whisper, not a word. I hope that this film is made, and the production travels, and that people who don't know what their country was part of get to learn and grow like I did tonight, about where they stand in a conflict, and where they could stand to help it transform. Thank you to the participants"

"An extremely moving and personal experience in a very balanced way.

As a child growing up during the events portrayed I was just saying to friends last week- at last we can talk about our experiences- we held it in so long that now we can speak- they always say until you can verbalise what you are feeling then and only then can you begin to heal- as always there is no destination only the young. Thank you"

"Without a doubt one of the best things I have ever seen in my life. It's going to stay with me forever. And to the drummer, you're class. And for the rest of the people onstage, you're all amazing people, who will forever be legends in my soul. p.s. Great song JJ Peace Hope Happiness"

"Thank you. I learnt a lot. I'm from Dublin. I'm Irish. But I feel more Irish after tonight. I understand a little bit more now. Thank you, K."

"My heart is heavy, your courage to go there with yourselves is an inspiration, and creates the space for an invitation for others to join you on a journey. Peace making starts from within, thank you."

"I am delighted to have witnessed such a personal and powerful, therapeutic play. The intergenerational context in which the play was acted out was warming and it enlightened me to the fact that the youth of today still have baggage/ hurt from the troubles even after ten years of a peace process! Thank you for your honesty!"

"Thank you so much for your honesty. I found your stories so deep moving- painful but healing at the same time. Please keep doing what you are doing!"

"You are all very brave and do make a difference. It's about making a critical mass of people who together will sort this country out."

"If there is/was such a thing of compulsory viewing this is it... on a variety of different mediums to reach the greatest audience"

"Your performances moved me to tears. I am not originally from Northern Ireland. But tonight I was given the honour of experiencing the Troubles. It makes me wish I could do something to help bring healing to this beautiful nation."

"Powerful listening, no-one has a monopoly on pain or loss.

Beautiful photography, Full of Hope. Congratulations"

"I found it very moving. It was hard to watch. It showed how brutal things actually were in the north. I found it eye opening to what really went on and felt it was more effective to hear from the people who have been directly affected by the troubles rather than from stories I have heard."

"Play very good. Enjoyed it very much"

"There are voices missing in this story. These are the voices of people placed it in the political and social context of the time and are traumatised like the rest of us and place the violence in this context. Have no shame, definitely trauma and stand over it. If these voices are not heard the silencing will continue and lead to another generation of people feeling not quite right here."

 

"Some have said that we are outside history - we cannot live it (those of no coming after). But when those who have lived it, process it, they are honest, truly honest and share that honesty in a creative way - it helps everyone to understand themselves a bit more. It is not easy but it is truthful - and truth in that sense is beauty and grace Thank you!"

"I came across with similar stories twice in my life: the first time in 2001 with people from Rwanda sharing their experiences of genocide in 94 by acting on stage too. The second time was back last year with "The Wave Trauma Centre" in Belfast. I'm French and I've never had to deal with such stories. I'm very pleased to be part of the experience tonight and let me wonder why this happened. Thanks."

"It was very emotional to the point where I cried and crying is not something that I do. I know, from a personal experience, that "expressing" yourself on stage is one of the hardest things to do. I have a great admiration for the work that Theatre of Witness have displayed. (My point reflects the point that James Greer initially made)"

"Powerful, beautiful, traumatic. Love inspires"

"Thank you for having the courage and strength to tell your stories. 'Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures. And however undramatic the pursuit of peace, the pursuit must go on.' J.F.K."

"I saw the film in a University setting, it was very powerful. But as soon as I saw the young man drumming I felt unbearable pain - it was overwhelming to witness so much pain so visibly in one young man."

"Really appreciated hearing from people under the age of... 30, maybe, because younger people of my own age often feel so disenfranchised and that our experience is somehow less relevant. So... thanks."

"You need to release on video and make compulsory viewing in every school/collage in N.I. Very, very good and important."

"Thank you for sharing your stories, it was very moving and very brave."

"Amazingly brave - many more people should see it - We don't need our modern day celebrities - we need people like you. God love you all"

"EDUCATING - never realised how ignorant I am although I have lived through it by family involvement through security forces. "

"I came to N.I. in 1986, very young and with very little knowledge of the troubles. I watched from a distance, amazed and amused by the bizarre and strange ways a land fights herself. I painted a series of oil paintings about it. What I found so touching about the evening's play is, human frailty, courage, warmth and suffering bypasses the boundaries of race, colour, nationality, creed or diversity of any kind and what remains ultimately in the heart is connecting with another human at a more profound level when you can become one. The most moving point was to see Jon hold Fionnbharr at the end, taking on the role of the father he has longed for. And perhaps, that's how we can truly be, what another human needs at a given moment. Our humanity transcends human ties."

"Very worthwhile venture. Cathartic experience. Hope all the performers have experienced some closure, all the participants have regained their humanity. Final extremely moving and worthy of standing ovations. Must see for the "folks on the hill". Highly recommendable. Keep up the good work!"

"My Grandfather was a pro-treaty Republican many, many years ago, and I only found this out a few years ago. I knew and still know nothing of his life or stories. The only way this country can move forward together is for every person on this island to see this show and hear their stories. Thank you one and all from the bottom of my heart. We need more heroes like you!"

"The fact that people were telling their own stories was particularly powerful - but I feel for Fionnbharr and how much is unresolved for him? Like so many others in Northern Ireland who have never been helped. Such a performance can only contribute hugely to a better future. Can you continue? Can others have an opportunity to participate or attend? Wonderful group of people - and very well performed. Music appropriate also. We now have young people growing up who need to know and understand."

"There's a wall, so there is Between us and them. There is Throw me ball against me wall and back to me. Is there anyone who can tell me that they didn't help in building it? Open your eyes and tell me what you see. Thank you for painting a picture on the wall of the view you would see if me wall wasn't there."

"Thank you for your openness and skill in communicating your messages. Having been "somewhat sheltered" from any extreme personal tragedy of the troubles - it has afforded me the opportunity to understand a lot more about what experiences others have had - wishing you continued success with your work/ and in essence your contributions "individually" and "collectively" to the peace in our province. Most of all wishing you blessings in life and peace, wellbeing and love in abundance. Keep shining! You are all stars and spiritual guides! Keep guiding! Thanks and blessings! And thank you for the drumming, really enjoyed the energy and talent!"

"If I can do anything to help with this on future similar projects - promotion, confidence-building workshops, arts projects, whatever - please let me know! Would be delighted to do whatever I can."

"It sounds awful but this performance, as spectacular and talent-filled as it was, it made me feel guilty. I'm from the South of Ireland and it reminded me of now, despite feeling now more at home in Belfast than anywhere else in the world, there is an element of this place I will never be able to understand because I still feel a part of, or an accomplice to, ignorance or the turning of a blind eye on a conflict that tore this tiny island apart. Much love, thank you!"

"Theatre of Witness - a tidy production and a cathartic experience. Please can we have some views of the people who do not think they were anywhere near the problem to be in the production."

"I thought the play was poignant and thought provoking. Everyone was brave and forthright and deserve a lot of respect. The play has inspired me to reflect on my own personality and also to achieve goals in life that would make me happy. I look forward to the documentary and a future with a lot more story telling!"

"Dear Performers,
WOW! I think every single person in Northern Ireland needs to see this. Thank you so much for your honesty. Painful but good pain. Refreshing to hear absolute truth and good to have an honest cry for one past. Fabulous! I'm overwhelmed."

"Really moved by performance, especially being from the late generation born in 80's. I remember thinking how unlucky I was to be born somewhere which is so conflict-ridden, difficult and oppressive in so many ways. So I left as soon as I could. I returned only a few months ago and everything is coming rushing back. At least now I feel I have gained some relief and insight from having time away. Feel very happy to be back and living here now as I can feel the place moving on and plays like this one telling everyone's story very accurately."