About
Jaq-in-the-Box Pop-up Theatre presents The Bench
Jaq-in-the-Box is a new theatre company based in Belfast. Producers Julie Kinsella and Maria Quinn established the company to produce fresh, new writing for stages and all sorts of spaces.
As writers, producers and performers Julie and Maria have between them 50 years' experience of working in theatre, film and television. Their aim with Jaq-in-the-Box is to deliver thought-provoking entertainment, touring work to urban, rural and eventually international audiences.
Maria says, "We strive for authenticity - work that feels right to us at the right time, work that inspires, that delights us and our audiences. We're not afraid to make you laugh just for the sheer enjoyment of sharing a smile. We're not afraid to make you stop and think - and maybe take action."
The Bench is a 60-minute show suitable for audiences aged 14+ and ponders the wonderful, quirky characters that take a seat on one solitary park bench on a sunny, spring afternoon. Their stories unfold with universal themes of friendship, love, loss, an appreciation of nature … and a dash of the absurd.
The Bench is an adaptation of the company's first production, Benches, a promenade-style piece premiered at last year's Eastside Arts Festival in Belfast. It then toured to outdoor spaces along the Causeway Coast, where audiences followed the action played out on benches in the villages.
"We were delighted to include two performances of Benches in our 2025 programme. A funny, heart-warming, authentic and engaging piece, it proved to be a hit with our audiences and a highlight of our festival." – Eastside Arts.
"The show was really good, witty and engaging. The audience really enjoyed it, and we have had great feedback. Thanks so much for playing it here. It's not our usual offering so more of that please." – Flowerfield Arts Centre
Expect a lot of laughs, a little learning and a sniffle or two when The Bench comes to town.
