1998 marked the centenary of the Klondike Gold Rush, documented and immortalised in Robert Service’s rhythmic ballad of The Trail of ‘98. It is perhaps not a coincidence that this historic anniversary coincided with resurgence in the popularity of the works of this romantic adventurer.

This gold-rush era story-play, written and devised by Mike O’Mahony, was first performed in New York in 1995, and thereafter, throughout Ireland on a regular basis until 2002. Now, again in 2012, the actor becomes the poet in Robert Service: Bard of the Yukon in bringing this era vividly to life, beginning with ‘The Canadian Kipling’s’ birth in England in 1874. Service’s childhood journey from England to Scotland, his youth and privileged education that introduced him to the arts, and the beginning of the great adventure of his life with his emigration to Canada in 1896 are dramatically recreated in this one-man, two-act story-play.

Presented by St John’s Theatre, Listowel and featuring Mike O’Mahony, it visits The Village Arts Centre on Friday, February 8. Tickets €10, now booking at the usual outlets: The Avondhu office, Fermoy (025-32227); Cotter’s Bar, Kilworth (025-27109 after 5pm); Hyland’s Bookshop, Mitchelstown (025-24528) or call 087-6492514.