Gowran Little Theatre is buzzing with excitement as they prepare to bring Brian Friel’s celebrated play, Dancing at Lughnasa, to the stage at Gowran Parish Hall from October 18th to 21st, 2024.
Under the skilled direction of Declan Taylor, who has over three decades of experience in theatre, the production promises to captivate audiences. “It’s an honour to direct what I believe to be one of the greatest Irish plays,” he says. “Dancing at Lughnasa offers everything a theatre-goer could hope for—drama, entertainment, and above all, five powerful female characters who yearn for love and a brighter future for themselves and each other.”
Set during the harvest season of 1936 in the rural town of Ballybeg, Donegal, Dancing at Lughnasa tells the poignant story of the five Mundy sisters as they struggle to make ends meet. The family’s household is also home to their brother Jack, a missionary priest recently returned from Africa after 25 years, and Michael, the young son of the youngest sister. Through Friel’s masterful storytelling, the play explores not only the inner lives of the sisters and their challenging circumstances, but also the broader cultural landscape—Christian and pagan—that surrounds them.
The production features a talented cast, including Peter Madden, Anne Murray, Nicola Morrissey, Kevina Hayes, Gráinne Burke, Orna Ward, Alan Grant, and Derek Lawler, making it a must-see event.
Tickets for Gowran Little Theatre’s Dancing at Lughnasa are available online at www.gowranlittletheatre.com or can be purchased in person at Glasraí & Goodies Shop on Main Street, Gowran. Be sure to get yours and experience this magical production firsthand!
