Plays have been staged in the Castlelyons/Coolagown/Britway area for the last 70 years or so. In recent times theatrical groups from these communities merged to form Barrymore Players who have successfully staged a one act drama festival for the past 14 years.
The festival runs over two nights and attracts entries from throughout the county - this year Gunpowder Productions (Ballincollig), Conna Dramatic Society, Kilworth Dramatic Society, Take 5, Coachford Players and the host group all vied for honours.
On Friday and Saturday last patrons were treated to some excellent fare, a point picked up on by adjudictor, Cora Fenton.
"I'm a huge fan of one acts and I'm firm in the view that they represent outstanding entertainment for audiences. This has been very much the case in Castlelyons for the last two nights and one can only be impressed by the passion and commitment we saw in each of the plays," she said.
In the final analysis, Cora had the job of picking through the performances and indentifying the good from the exceptional. The two blue riband awards for 'best play' and 'best circuit play went to 'Kids' by Barrymore Players and 'Hero' by Conna Dramatic Society respectively.
The other awards went to the following: best circuit actor: Kris Cowing (Take 5); best circuit actress: Emer Martin (Conna Dramatic Society); best actor: Mark O'Flynn (Barrymore Players); best actress: Helen Bennett (Conna Dramatic Society); best supporting actress: Maura Lucey (Coachford Players); best director: Elton Griffin (Gunpowder Productions); best set: Coachford Players; best first time stage performance: Fiona O'Brien (Barrymore Players); best first time producer: Philip Peet (Conna Dramatic Society); golden moment of theatre: Gunpowder Productions and youth award: Laura Hayes: Conna Dramatic Society.
In her address, festival director Martha Riordan, thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the festival. In his contribution, special guest, mayor of county Cork Cllr Alan Coleman, said Cork County Council was delighted to assist a festival that provided a platform for so much theatrical talent.
Notice

A Christmas show 'Sleigh Bells Ring' will be staged in Castlelyons Community Centre on Friday, 12th December at 8pm. The show will include a performance by Castlelyons Gospel Choir and tenor Ryan Morgan. Tickets €10.   

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