Summary
Rex Ryan, founder of Glass Mask Theatre, discusses his new production, The Witness, which is based on the true story of Joey O'Callaghan, the youngest person to enter witness protection in Ireland. O'Callaghan's harrowing journey began in childhood when he was groomed into a gang, facing severe abuse and exploitation. Ryan was inspired to adapt the story after reading Nicola Talent's book about O'Callaghan, which left him deeply moved and eager to bring the narrative to the stage.
The Witness is a one-man show that aims to immerse the audience in O'Callaghan's traumatic experiences, utilizing innovative staging and technology to enhance the storytelling. Ryan emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience on a profound level, stating that the theatre should challenge viewers and provoke thought. He reflects on the intensity of live performance, noting that it allows for a unique exploration of deep themes, contrasting his previous work, The Monk, which also dealt with criminality but from a different perspective.
Ryan acknowledges the mixed reception of The Monk and expresses his desire to respect the audience's intelligence, allowing them to interpret the play's messages for themselves. He aims for The Witness to be a technically refined production that resonates emotionally, capturing the precariousness of O'Callaghan's life. As he continues to develop his craft, Ryan remains influenced by his family's legacy in theatre, striving to honor those who have shaped his artistic journey.
Show Notes
Rex Ryan, Founder of Glass Mask Theatre joins Ciara to discuss his new show ‘The Witness’!
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