Local Tipperary drama group to host performance in aid of local school

Ballysloe National School will be the beneficiaries of Thurles Drama Group opening night on Monday, February 23, in the Source Arts Centre with Brian Friel’s classic play, ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’, performed by Thurles Drama Group and directed by Margaret McCormack.

The evening will begin with a cheese and wine reception at 7:15pm followed by the show at 8pm.

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Tickets are €20 and are available from staff members at the school and at the box office at the Source Arts Centre.

Annette McCormack, principal, describes Ballysloe National School as a small, rural, two teacher school located in Ballysloe, Gortnahoe, Co Tipperary.

“Our small school is a valued part of the local community, offering a warm, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for its pupils. Alongside strong academic foundations, the school proudly embraces local culture and traditions, with a shared love of hurling, fostering teamwork, resilience, and community spirit among the children. Continued investment in educational resources would help ensure pupils can access rich learning experiences, both in the classroom and through activities that reflect the life and heritage of the area”.

“Our school is most grateful for the generosity of Thurles Drama Group, who are hosting their opening night of ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’ in support of our school. Events such as this highlight the importance of community involvement, and all support on the night will be warmly welcomed as the school looks to enhance its educational resources for the benefit of its pupils. Ballysloe National School could be described as ‘A Small School with a Big Heart’.

Meanwhile, rehearsals are in full swing as the cast and director approach opening night.

The play captures a brief period in time in Donegal during the summer of 1936 and the world of the Mundy sisters, Kate (Marie McElgun), Maggie (Geraldine Delaney), Agnes (Paula Drohan), Chris (Stacey Taylor) and Rose (Ciara O’Meara).

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Told through the adult Michael (Derek Doherty, Chris’ seven year old son), as a memory, questions arise about the accuracy and timeline of Michael’s story but in the context of the play's narrative and what takes place, the power and beauty of the story is overwhelming.

Father Jack’s (Liam Ryan) return after years as a missionary priest in Uganda, seemingly unwell but rumoured to have ‘gone native’ while away, his presence at home has momentous consequences.

Kate losing her job as the local primary teacher because of Jack’s behaviour throws the entire family into poverty.

Rose and Agnus end up leaving home, emigrating to London to live out the remainder of their lives destitute.

Despite this the sisters maintain a positive outlook on life and as a result the play never becomes sad or sentimental.

In the end, the audience embraces the sadness of their world but are uplifted by their collective resilience and hope for the future.

A play therefore not to be missed so book your tickets soon as they are selling fast already.