Laois Fourth Wall Theatre Group presents Bernard Farrell’s situational comedy I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell directed by David Corri.
A group therapy session is led by the enigmatic and manipulative Suzy (Mary Dermody). The participants Joe Fell (John Kavanagh), Roger (Kevin Lalor-Fitzpatrick), Peter (Joe Murphy), Maureen (Alex O’Neal), and Rita (Maeve Heneghan) reveal more about themselves than they intended, leading to hilariously awkward situations. Paddy (Michael Brennan), the Group Attendant, provides the ‘normal’ balance to the proceedings. Clashing egos and misunderstandings devolve into absurd confrontations creating tension between Susy’s calm demeanour and the chaos of the group members. As Suzy applies increasing pressure, the cracks begin to show, and buried conflicts, resentments, and fears erupt.
The play balances absurdity with authenticity, keeping the audience laughing while reflecting on human nature’s vulnerabilities and contradictions. Themes of control and human vulnerability are explored, exposing a thin line between therapy and coercion. Set in the 1980s, the play is a satire of the self-help culture and a hilarious commentary on power dynamics within supposed safe spaces.
Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group
The Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group was formed in September 2016. Its first major production was Big Maggie by John B Keane in 2017. This was followed in 2018 by Hugh Leonard’s Da and by Keane’s Sive, and The Field in 2019 and 2022. Last year’s production was The Country Boy by John Murphy.
The group is community based and is made up of experienced actors, set builders, technicians, stage managers, producers, and backstage crew. The group has a steady intake of talented newcomers to the theatrical world each year.
If you are interested in participating and would like to become a member of Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group, feel free to get in contact with them on their Facebook page. For membership enquiries, please contact Kevin Lalor-Fitzpatrick at 087 961 4235.
I Do Not Like Thee, Dr Fell runs at Thomastown Concert hall on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 May.
