The inaugural 24 Hour Theatre Takeover at the Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny was a phenomenal success. This unique event brought together writers, directors, and actors from Kilkenny, Carlow, and Waterford, who created, rehearsed, and performed original short plays within just 24 hours.
Starting at 8pm on Friday, 19th July, Kilkenny writers Fern Kealy, Cian McGarrigle, Joe Murphy, Steven Buck, and Caroline Sutherland received prompts and cast lists to fuel their creative processes.
By Saturday morning, their scripts were ready to be handed over to directors Gail Caddy, Darren Donohue, John Prendergast, Mark Duffy, Edwina Cummins, and Martin Matthews, and a talented cast including Catriona Bambrick, Paul Behan, Aoibhin Murphy, Anne Murray, and Leah Grace.
Waterford’s Luke Corcoran, Jerome O’Sullivan, and Steven Walsh also played key roles in bringing these new plays to life.
The audience, captivated by the sheer talent and dedication on display, was thrilled with the performances. The event raised funds for two local charities: Cois Nore. which provides vital cancer support services, and Teac Tom which offers essential support for those affected by suicide.
Supported by Billy Byrnes, Glasrai and Goodies, Alan Cullen of Noreside Catering, LIDL Ireland and The Truffle Fairy in Thomastown, this event, organised by playwright Gillian Grattan, demonstrated the power of creativity and community spirit.
Attendees and participants alike agree that the 24 Hour Theatre Takeover is set to become an annual tradition.
