Derry playwright Brian Foster says he is delighted at the reception his play, A Miracle in Donegal, received from audiences in both Derry and Letterkenny over the last few years. Not to mention the rave reviews it received from newspaper critics.
Foster, who also directed the play, said “In all honesty, I’m stunned at how well it’s gone down. Not since my play Maire – a Woman of Derry have I seen audience reactions like that to one of my productions. Every night for the six night run they were instantly up on their feet at the end to give a noisy, rousing, standing ovation. They cheered and stamped their feet. Some even wept with sheer joy and exhilaration. It was quite overwhelming. Naturally, all concerned, the cast, technicians and myself are on an incredible high that we were able to bring so much enjoyment to so many people.”
The theatrical experience of this play was revived on many occasions and now Shrugawadda Players from Kilmoganny are set to stage the Foster scripted piece at St Eoghan’s Centre at Kilmoganny.
Speaking to The Observer, director of the show, Alycia Kearney said the team at Kilmoganny were really looking forward to the production. Aylcia took time to remember former director Michael Dowling, who set up the drama group in 2005 and directed until 2018. Michael passed away in 2023. He possessed a great knowledge of drama and was very talented. He will be sadly missed and sympathies go to Patricia, his wife and all his family.
A Miracle in Donegal is set in the Parochial house in Burnfoot parish, Co. Donegal. A young schoolgirl, Katie McDaid, claims she is experiencing visions of the Blessed Virgin. This totally inflames Church Politics in the usually quiet little parish of Burnfoot. The community is divided as the priests battle amongst themselves. Elderly parish priest, Fr D`Arcy also has his lifelong housekeeper, Tilly Ryan, to contend with. Fr.Collins has his own strong opinion and newly ordained priest, Fr. Rock is not too sure of anything. A thought provoking play with plenty to ponder on with lovely music and song throughout.
The cast is:
Martin O Shea – Fr. D`Arcy
Sophie Gilmore – Katie McDaid
Caroline Doran – Tilly Ryan
Stephen Gilmore – Fr. Collins
Muiris Wallace – Fr. Rock
Singing Voice – Aoife Farrel
Voiceovers – Briona Moore, L. Moore, W. Kearney, C. Moore
Director – Alycia Kearney
Set and Design – Stephen Gilmore
Set Builder – Willie Kearney
Music and Sound – Aobha Moore/Biddy Hawe
Lighting – Ciaran Moore
Front of House – Jackie Kenneally/Marie Kelly
Backstage – Jackie Kennedy
The production runs from 19th to 22nd February 2025 at 8pm nightly. Tickets can be purchased online at www.gr8events.ie/shrughawaddaplayers2025. Or contact Alycia on 087 675 7490 or Jackie on 087 995 3532.
