Fair City star takes to the stage in Tipperary

The Source Arts Centre in Thurles has a rich and varied programme of theatre scheduled as the nights close in, with three distinct and highly-regarded shows coming up over the next two months.

HAPPINESS THEN

Fair City star Sorcha Furlong joins Glenroe and Kin alumnus Rachael Dowling on the stage in ‘Happiness Then’ on October 22nd.

‘Happiness Then’ is a comedy drama delving into the relationship between two sisters, Bridget and Frances, who meet for the first time after their mother’s death. Eternally at odds, they bicker as only sisters can, over everything from the wine to the will.

Exploring the fallout of being left behind, loves and losses are examined and re-examined with acerbic wit and delicious put downs. Can Bridget and Frances’ searching need for sisterly support help to mend their broken relationships, not only with each other but with their loved ones, before it’s too late?

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

On October 29th, Norma Sheahan, one of Ireland's leading dramatic actors, returns to the Source with her sell-out performance of Willy Russell's Shirley Valentine.

Shirley, a 45-year-old housewife, is trapped in a dreary marriage and humdrum life. As she prepares her husband’s dinner (egg and chips), Shirley wonders when she lost her hopeful, youthful self. Feeling isolated, she resorts to full-blown (although somewhat one-sided) conversations with her bestie: her kitchen wall and dreams of excitement beyond her grim role as ‘St Joan of the fitted units’.

So, when an unexpected chance to travel to Greece appears, Shirley takes a leap; digs deep into her flagging confidence and discovers it’s never too late to reclaim your dreams, your joy, and yourself. The production promises laughter, poignancy, and an unforgettable evening with one of theatre’s most iconic characters.

First performed in 1986, this production marks the 40th Anniversary of the play. Shirley Valentine has won an Olivier Award for Best Comedy, a Tony Award for Best Play, and inspired an Oscar-nominated film.

ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST

In November, Thurles Drama Group bring their production of the American classic One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest to The Source.

After being convicted of a petty crime, a charming, rebellious rogue named McMurphy contrives to serve his short sentence in an airy mental institution rather than in a prison. This, he soon learns, was a mistake.

He immediately clashes with the authoritarian head nurse, a fierce martinet named Nurse Ratched. Despite Ratched's strict reign, McMurphy revolts, quickly takes over the yard, leading the other patients out of introversion. But McMurphy's brash insubordination might have its consequences...

The show runs from November 16th to the 21st.

All tickets can be booked via The Source website or in-person.