Drama in ballycommon

The Puckane and Carrig Drama Group return to the stage of the Muintir na Tire Hall in Ballycommon on 28th, 29th and 30th of November(at 8.30) to present their latest play 'Kevin's Bed'. The play, written by Bernard Farrell, had its first production at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin in 1998. The group are again under the expert direction of Michael O'Meara and the cast comprising of nearly all of last years stalwarts are joined this year by two new members.

The play is about the Gillespie family and traces the parents' expectations, disappointments and broken dreams and in doing so it mainly concerns itself with the fortunes of their younger son, the doomed dreamer called Kevin, who as the title suggests has made his bed and will have to lie in it. The play charts the changes that occur over a 25 year span, the first act takes place on the parent's Silver Wedding Anniversary and the second act on their Golden Anniversary. The time frame of 25 years allows the author to explore the play's characters as they deal with each unrealised dream - back to childhood where all seems possible and then into the future where the best laid plans may come to nought. Throughout this time, sub plots continually present themselves. Kevin's brother John has his story, as has Kevin's childhood sweetheart Betty as has his Italian wife Maria and even the inner lives of the neighbours, in particular the intriguing Pauline,begin to emerge. But always at the heart of the play , are Dan and Doris, Kevin's parents, forever puzzled and perplexed, amused and appalled at how the their happiness is at the mercy of their children's fortune's. Gradually, the  play has become the story of their survival.

The parents are played by Gerry Foley and Beatrice Morrissey with Kevin Ryan and Tomas Nevin, their sons Kevin and John respectively. The dynamic Kilbarron duo of Sharon Dunne and Margaret Fox are in the roles of Betty and Pauline. Pauline's love interest (one of many) is played by Seamus Ryan. Making their debuts with the group this year are Marianne D'Arcy  who plays Kevin's Italian wife Maria and Clodagh Cleary who plays her daughter.

Tickets for the play can be bought at Kennedy's Shop, Puckane or can be booked at 087-6375839. In order to enjoy what promises to be an absorbing evening of drama early booking is advised.

 

* Picture shows the cast in the play.