Fans of Ballyduff Drama Group and, indeed, fans of good theatre in general should not miss the return of this talented group to home ground next week.
Following an incredibly successful festival circuit (first to qualify and six wins) they will, once again strike for gold in the All-Ireland Amateur Drama finals in Athlone on May 12th.
The group gathered awards for acting, directing, set, lighting and sound on their travels and the backstage crew surpassed themselves again in their ability to set up and take down sets in such an efficient manner.
Sporting two national wins and one runner-up in the last three years, the cast lead by the well-respected Ger Canning will surely be there or thereabouts once again (no pressure!).
The play itself ‘The Blackwater Lightship’ was originally a novel by Irish writer and playwright Colm Toibin and has been adapted for the stage by David Horan. The audience will recognise many Ballyduff stalwarts: John Stack, Mary Colbert, Sheila Luskin, Ronan Bennet, Tony O’Hanlon and Phil McGrath while introducing newcomer Clodagh Whelan playing Helen, the sister of AIDS victim Declan.
Whilst dealing with the ravages of the AIDS epidemic in the 80s/90s, the play also contains much humour in trying to navigate the many struggles, grief, prejudices and beliefs that accompany such a subject.
The play will run on Saturday May 3rd, Monday 5th, Tuesday 6th, Saturday 10th and a Sunday afternoon matinee on the 11th at 1pm.
Tickets can be booked on 087-1391200 from 2-6pm daily. The acting and production values in this play are very strong – do not miss! – Sponsored by Blackwater Distillery.
