The 90 minute trip to St Mary's Hall, Rossmore was a worthwhile one for the Palace Players last weekend when they eventually came out on top in the open section competition of the West Cork One Act Drama Festival, edging out the home side, Kilmeen who finished ahead of Blue Hat (Whitechurch).
To add to their achievement, Danny Buckley also took the best director award. Cast and crew were thrilled that their play 'The Quiet Land' by Malachy McKenna, was so well received by the both audience and the adjudicator, Ms Belinda Wilde.
This means the group faces the long trip to Letterkenny for the All Ireland finals (Dec 1/2/3), the draws for which will be made on this Sunday (26th).
However, while the group will be anxiously awaiting the result of the draw, they will take to the stage of their home venue (the Village Arts Centre) on this Sunday afternoon for a 3pm fundraising performance.
FINAL CHANCE
This will be your final chance to catch this beautiful piece of theatre which has amassed the group three wins and two second places on the festival circuit.
The afternoon performance will hopefully facilitate a number of people, particularly those who prefer not to drive at night or who may have an early start on Monday morning.
The play, directed by Danny Buckley, stars Sean Ahern as Nashee and Liam Howard as Eamonn – two old neighbours who meet at a clearing on the hillside between their homes.
The play is a celebration of humour, resilience and endearing innocence of an exiled generation as it struggles to survive in the isolated rural Ireland of today. It's the author's heartfelt tribute to a rare breed of forgotten men who live 'a long way in off the road'.
To add to this special sense of occasion on Sunday, there will be a cheese and wine reception commencing at 2.45 and patrons will be included in a free raffle for a prize on their door ticket – and all this for €10.
Proceeds will go towards the group's trip to the finals in Letterkenny. Your support will be appreciated.
Tickets from usual Arts Centre outlets or call 025-32227 or 087-6492514.
