Chequered Flags For Chequered Futures Takes Centre Stage Next Week

A number of our pupils admitted they are a bit nervous about performing in front of Chris Gilfoy next week, who our latest school production centres around.

‘Chequered Flags to Chequered Futures’ by Mark Wheeller tells the true story of Chris Gilfoy, the Rookie’s World Champion Bangor Racer in 2000.

In 2006, Chris was being driven by a racing friend who was driving too fast, neither had a seatbelt on and the driver was uninsured. They narrowly avoided killing another driver and crashed into a wall.

The fast-paced story tells the life-changing consequences for all three involved and Chris will be in the audience for one of our productions, which are on Wednesday and Thursday next week (7th & 8th May).

Year 11 Kayleigh plays the lead role of Jane, the mother of the driver Shelley.

“I guess we will be a bit nervous with Chris there. I have enjoyed doing this play as it’s a bit more challenging than others. I have never been in this situation so you have to work on bringing the emotional side out. It has been good working on it though, with my friends, although I have a lot of lines to learn!”

Year 8 Lillia plays Shelley. “It will be tense with Chris in the audience. I will give it my all!”

Year 10 Molly plays Bryoni. “I am the daughter of Chris and I talk about living through the accident and the aftermath. It is emotional although it has been really good rehearsing. It’s a sad topic. I am a little bit more nervous with Chris attending.”

Year 10 Ben plays Graham. “I am a friend of Chris. I do have one long paragraph but it’s said off stage so that’s not too bad! I am looking forward to performing.”

Year 10 Caleb plays Roy, the dad of Chris. He said: “It’s been a good experience. Most of my lines are in reply to someone so it hasn’t been as difficult for me. It’s got a very important message that one moment can change your life.”

Performances are Wednesday, 7 May and Thursday, 8 May starting at 7pm.  

Tickets are now on sale via SCOPay or cash on the door at £7 each. Age restricted to Year 7+ due to the sensitive nature of the story. Show ends at 8.15pm approx.