It is an enormous credit to the vibrancy of the community of Lislea, a fabulously picturesque district on the way from Camlough to Crossmaglen, that they are currently celebrating their 23rd Drama Festival. I recently skimmed through again Tom Keane’s booklet of the history of the area [now an unbelievable 30 years old!] and was enormously impressed. Newry library has no copy and neither have I. Any chance, Tom?
Last time I attended a play, it was standing room only. These thespians could teach Newpoint – or any one else, for that matter – a lesson. I’ll be among you for a number of your forthcoming dramas. Meanwhile, for those interested, the programme includes:
Callaghan’s Place – a play that examines the effects of isolation in remote rural areas. It is performed by St Dympna’s Dramatic Society.
Philadelphia, here I Come – the Friel classic, by Castle Players, Tyrone.
Playboy of the Western World: Singe; Wayside Players, Wexford.
Girls in the Big Picture: Belfast’s fabulous Marie Jones; Pomeroy Players, Tyrone.
Eclipsed: Drama Circle, Creggan. 1960s convent laundry (yes, you’ve guessed!)
View from a Bridge: Millar classic: Lislea Dramatic Players
They all need and richly deserve your support. You’ll be made welcome!