New play spotlights kidnapping of journalist
Members of Birmingham Press Club are being invited to a VIP reception and first-night preview on Thursday,15 June of a brand-new musical “dramedy” based on the real-life experiences of kidnapped British journalist John McCarthy and his partner Jill Morell, who actively campaigned for his release.
Staged by Exit Productions, “After This Plane Has Landed,” is by local songwriter/musician Adrian Kimberlin (pictured) and takes place at the Dark Horse, 145 Alcester Road, Moseley, Birmingham, before moving on to the Edinburgh Fringe in the summer.
To reserve your VIP ticket please email enquiries@exitrecording.com
The Dark Horse are providing one main plus one drink for £10 for all Press Club members.
John McCarthy was working for United Press International Television News when, in 1986, he was kidnapped by Islamic Jihad terrorists in war-torn Lebanon. He was held in captivity for more than five years During his time as a prisoner he learned that his girlfriend, Jill Morrell, frustrated by government inaction, was actively campaigning for his release, launching a group called “Friends of John McCarthy.”
Following his release, he co-wrote, with Jill, a memoir of his years in captivity, entitled “Some Other Rainbow.” However, their relationship ended four years later, and in 1999 John married photographer Anna Ottewill.
Becky Jones-Owen, who organises pub theatre productions, said: “The performance places sharp focus on the very human elements of John & Jill’s situation and it goes on to explore events beyond a joyful reunion under an intense media spotlight and with the fairy-tale expectations of an enthralled public.
“With its journalist theme I feel the show will have a real relevance to the Press Club.
“The play is less than an hour and you can drink throughout – so it will be a very convivial experience!” said Becky.
The Press Club VIP reception is at 7 pm. The performance starts at 8 pm.
Tickets for other performances are available at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/after-this-plane-has-landed-a-musical-dramedy-by-adrian-kimberlin-tickets-559624220107
