The opening night of The Country Boy was nothing short of extraordinary, a performance worthy of national recognition and a reminder of the immense talent thriving in our local community. With its masterful blend of nostalgia, hardship, and poignant truths, this production captured the heart of rural Ireland and the bittersweet reality of emigration that has shaped so many families.
The local cast delivered performances that were nothing less than astounding. Each actor brought depth and authenticity to their roles, painting a vivid picture of a time and place deeply embedded in our shared history.
The portrayal of characters navigating the tensions between dreams of America and the ties to home was both heartfelt and profoundly moving. The chemistry between the actors was electric, drawing the audience into every tender, funny, and heart-breaking moment.
The play’s themes resonated deeply, shedding light on the sacrifices made by those who left and the resilience of those who stayed behind. Its exploration of family dynamics, aspirations, and the cost of ambition was both timeless and achingly relevant.
The production team deserves equal praise for their efforts. The set design evoked a rustic charm, steeped in the authenticity of rural Ireland, while the lighting and soundscapes subtly enriched the atmosphere.
Every detail, from the costumes to the pacing, was executed with care and precision, ensuring that the story was as visually compelling as it was emotionally impactful.
This performance of The Country Boy is a shining example of the cultural wealth in our community, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the stories that define us. It’s not just a local play—it’s a masterpiece that deserves to be seen and celebrated far and wide.
Bravo to all involved in this remarkable production. If you have the chance to see it, don’t hesitate. This is theatre at its finest.
Review: The Country Boy was fantastic!
by Emer MacDermott
From the opening scene to the last, this production is brilliantly done! The characters are so believable and so familiar as a representation of familiy relationships back in the day!
Tom and Mary Kate, played by John and Mary McHugh, have that typical long term relationship, where they both get on with their own duties within the home and the farm, but the emotional harmony in the family is reliant on the gentle but effective string pulling by Mary Kate.
Curley, played by Marcus Wynne, was so convincing, and his love for Eileen, played by Jenny Carney, is so beautifully played. I also thought his interactions with his brother Eddie, played by David Langan, was so well done. I really love Curley, he has so much going on, and so much to think about, as each road he considers holds a huge amount of risk, but he knows he needs to do something.
I thought the whole question of whether leaving your own home and what effect that has on your happiness, was so well protrayed by Eddie and his wife, Julia, played by Anne Fahey. It made me think about different aspects of emigration and how much of a wrench it is to leave the familiar supports that we rely on at home.
I had a great night out. Thanks to the whole crew for a wonderful production. The last scene with Curley and his Dad, Tom, was so well played and brought a tear to my eye. Show on tonight, Saturday and Sunday at 8pm, Fursa’s Hall. Tickets available at the door
Rainbows Ireland – Supporting Children and Young People with Bereavement and Parental Separation The Rainbows programme is starting in Solas Family Resource Centre in February 2025. It is group
Glencorrib Kilroe Community Development presents a NIGHT OF CULTURE Friday 17th January 2025 Starts 7.30 p.m. Sharp In Glencorrib Hall Including local talent with Special Guest Matt Cunningham and Friends
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