Callan Durrant is the Artistic Director of Reflex Theatre company, which is touring a powerful new play rooted in East Anglian stories from the end of this month. Here, Callan explains how Call Me John is inspired, first and foremost, by the story of his great grandfather
What happens when a whole generation feels forgotten? That’s the question at the heart of Call Me John from local company Reflex Theatre, a powerful new play built from the real memories, voices and experiences of residents across East Anglia. The story centres on John, an older man determined not to be forgotten. As he shares his life story with his grandson, the play becomes a moving reflection on memory, family and the ties between generations; asking what we pass on, what we lose and what happens when people stop listening to one another.
The play is inspired by “The Story of My Life” by Alfred John Ashley Ridgeon, who was born near Brandon, raised in Saxmundham, served abroad in World War 2 and, upon his return, worked across Norfolk and Suffolk before settling in Beccles. He also happens to be the Great Grandfather of Reflex’s Artistic Director, Callan Durrant.
Callan says: “This has been 12 years in the making. When Grandad finished writing his own life, he said he was worried he would be forgotten. Having spoken to so many wonderful local people, both young and old, we realised that so many others felt the same. So, we developed this story through these conversations and hopefully, this show will help ensure that no feels forgotten at any stage of life.”
The production also includes a community zone in venue front of house spaces, where charities and organisations can freely share information about services that help tackle loneliness and isolation. It is a way of extending the play’s themes beyond the stage and connecting audiences with real local support.
Reflex Theatre presents “Call Me John”, inspired by The Story of My Life by Alfred John Ashley Ridgeon, written by Megan Durrant and directed by Callan Durrant. Touring across East Anglia from April 30 to May 16, 2026: Aylsham Town Hall (30 Apr); The Carnegie, Thetford (1 May); Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall (2 May); Fisher Theatre, Bungay (6 May); The Garage, Norwich (7 May); Saxmundham Market Hall (8 May); Sheringham Masonic Hall (9 May); Dereham Memorial Hall (13 May); Hunstanton Town Hall (14 May); Carlton Colville Community Centre (15 May); The Workshop, King’s Lynn (16 May). Tickets are £10 and can be booked via reflextheatre.co.uk/callmejohn
All images supplied by Reflex Theatre
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