New Play Honors Northern Irish Olympic Hero Mary Peters’s Sporting Legacy

A new stage production titled “Gold Medal Mary” is set to celebrate the inspiring journey of Northern Irish Olympic champion Lady Mary Peters. This play, which emphasizes resilience and ambition, portrays a young Mary Peters striving to achieve greatness despite significant challenges.
Event Details
“Gold Medal Mary” will feature young actors from The Rainbow Factory School of Performing Arts. The performance is scheduled for April 28, 2026, at The MAC in Belfast. This original work has been developed in collaboration with The Mary Peters Trust.
Production Overview
- Title: Gold Medal Mary
- Location: The MAC, Belfast
- Date: April 28, 2026
- Ages of Performers: 10-21 years
The play’s narrative focuses on Mary Peters, a pentathlon gold medalist who won at the Munich Olympic Games on September 3, 1972. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a politically charged Belfast.
Creative Team
The project is written and directed by Maire Campbell, who aims to highlight the importance of women in sports through engaging storytelling. A spokesperson for The Rainbow Factory noted that this production serves to honor perseverance and the impact of youthful ambition.
Supporting Young Talent
YouthAction Northern Ireland plays a vital role in this initiative, supporting the Rainbow Factory program. This program offers high-quality performing arts training that fosters confidence, creativity, and resilience among young talent.
Post-Show Engagement
After the performance, there will be a special Q&A session with the audience, featuring Lady Mary Peters herself, allowing for a deeper connection between the audience and the Olympic hero.
This significant theatrical endeavor not only pays tribute to Mary Peters’s legacy but also encourages young individuals to embrace their dreams and potential in the competitive world of sports.




