Just over the border from Mayo, Headford turns into Knocksala
Headford Community Theatre this week presents the world premiere of a new drama, Last Stop Knocksala, written by renowned local playwright Michael Carey.
The production at St. Fursa’s Parish Hall will run from this Thursday to Sunday (March 12 to 15).
Michael Carey is a retired school principal and an actor and playwright of some standing on the theatre circuit in Ireland. His debut play, Craddock’s Well, has proven popular with amateur groups as far away as the USA, while another of his works, Thy Will Be Done, has won several major awards and continues to be a favourite on the amateur drama festival circuit in Ireland.
The village of Knocksala, where this new production is set, is perfect if it’s the quiet life you’re looking for. The story revolves around Katie Sweeney’s pub and the characters who frequent it. There’s mystery, intrigue, laughter and a touch of romance as the story of a stranger’s arrival to the sleepy town unfolds.
The local sergeant is about to retire. He never had much more to do than deal with a couple of local characters – a drunken nuisance and a smart young mechanic – but the arrival of a stranger with a questionable history disturbs his peace. Why did he come to Knocksala, and what is he hiding?
All will be revealed over two hours spent in the company of the fine cast and crew of Headford Community Theatre over four nights in St. Fursa’s Parish Hall. This production is being directed by the exceptionally talented John McHugh, who has extensive experience as an award-winning actor and director, and a keen eye for detail.
Theatre enthusiasts will be aware of the long history of drama and theatre in Headford. From a first production of The Coleen Bawn in 1915 through to more recent successes such as I Do Not Like Thee Dr. Fell and The Country Boy, Headford has shone on national and international stages.
Headford Drama Group was formed in 1973, and in 1983 they made history by becoming the first group to win the Confined All Ireland and Open All Ireland finals in the same year – a feat that hasn’t been achieved by another group since.
The wealth of experience within this talented group, coupled with Michael Carey’s extraordinary talent for engaging and relatable stories of family, love and complex human relationships, promise four excellent evenings of entertainment.
Tickets are available on the door or at tickettailor.com/events/headfordcommunitytheatre priced at €15 plus booking fee.