The Caucasian Chalk Circle

A child saved in war.
A mother’s claim.
A test of justice.

When Grusha risks everything to raise an abandoned child, she never expects to fight for him years later…

Who truly deserves to be a parent?

Hawk’s Well Theatre is delighted to welcome Stage Beyond Theatre Company with their touring production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle, presented as a relaxed performance.

In the chaos of a military coup, kitchen maid Grusha makes a life-changing decision: she rescues an abandoned baby, the princeling Michael, and flees to the mountains. Risking everything, she raises him as her own — until years later, his biological mother, Natella, comes to claim him.

What follows is a gripping legal battle over love, duty, and justice. Presiding over the case is the eccentric Judge Azdak, who calls upon the ancient and decisive test of the chalk circle. Who will win?

Bertolt Brecht’s political post-war masterpiece - presented in Frank McGuinness’s vivid translation and specially adapted by Stage Beyond - brings epic theatre to life with urgency and heart. Challenging ideas of ownership, morality, and what it means to care, this is a story as provocative as it is deeply human and asks: what gives anyone the right to be a parent?

Directed by Kate Guelke (currently also assisting with English National Opera). Associate Director: Nora Kavanagh.

Stage Beyond is a multi-award-winning local theatre company based at the Millennium Forum in Derry, that empowers young adults with learning disabilities to realise their potential through access to high-quality theatre. By creating opportunities for self-expression, collaboration, and public performance, Stage Beyond promotes equality, enriches the cultural landscape, and demonstrates the transformative power of the arts.

Stage Beyond is delighted to be visiting Hawk’s Well, which is hosting this special performance.

Stage Beyond is supported by National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.