Dancing at Lughnasa by Valley Drama Group ‘an act of giving’

Ireland has a remarkable affinity for live theatre. From Beckett to Keane, Murphy to Synge, the list of skilled storytellers who have used the stage as a means of communication is as astonishing as it is long.

Ranking high in those luminaries is the work of the Irish Chekhov, Brian Friel, and the members of the Delvin based Valley Drama Group have preparations in place as they are set to stage one of Ireland’s most beloved plays, and one of Friel’s finest, Dancing at Lughnasa.

“Everything is progressing nicely,” Colette Lynch says as the team go into the final phase of readying, “there’s just a little bit of, I suppose, panic in the room these days,” she jokes.

The rehearsals have been in full swing under the direction of Patricia Ronan since September. Her vision has guided the cast through every emotional beat of the story, to delve into the creative depth to the piece: “They’re a great team. They have worked so hard on what really is a huge play,” Colette, the artistic director and choreography, says.

“Everybody knows it from the film, it’s just a really good story. A sad story, but realistic too. It’s a story that has happened in so many households since and is still happening. It’s my favourite play.”

Under the leadership of chairperson Feilim O’Neill, and supported by a hardworking committee of seven, Valley Drama Group have done a lot of groundwork to bring the Dancing at Lughnasa to the audience.

Inspired by her own recent personal journey, Colette has shaped this production not only as a theatrical experience but as an act of giving. The show will bring joy, movement, and meaning to the stage while raising funds for Tullamore hospital. “We are going to give all the profits to the oncology unit,” Colette says.

“I love arts, crafts and drama and everything that goes with that. I have gone through treatment, and am in remission now. This is one way of celebrating.

“When you’re in the oncology unit, you can see how much support they need, and they look after everyone so well.

"It’s so local to us all because most people diagnosed with cancer in and around Mullingar will have their treatment in Tullamore. We’re very lucky to have it there.”

The Valley Drama Group have brought together a talented local cast, reflecting the communities at the heart of the drama. They will tell the story of five sisters, a fragile home, and a world on the edge of change. In the warmth and wildness of a Donegal summer in the 1930s, we meet the Mundy sisters – strong, spirited, and bound by love and survival.

Into their lives returns Fr Jack, played by Mick Roban, altered by his years away, carrying stories and beliefs that unsettle the familiar rhythms of faith and family.

Watching it all unfold is young Michael (Feilim O’Neill) and Hayden Morrissey, whose voice guides us through memory and longing. And then, like a gust of freedom, comes Gerry Evans (Johnny Lynch), sweeping down the road in his straw hat, full of charm, music, and uncertainty.

The play dances between joy and heartbreak, music and silence and leaves audiences to wonder not just what happens, but what remains.

This production is more than a play; it’s a celebration of community spirit, drawing audiences from across Westmeath and beyond: “We stage it in St Patrick’s Hall on two nights and a matinee on Sunday.

"There’ll be no bingo, no raffles, it’s all strictly drama. We advise audiences to get their tickets in advance of the show, just to avoid disappointment,” Colette said.

Stay updated via the Valley Drama Group on Facebook and Instagram.

Dancing at Lughnasa is at St Patrick’s Hall, Delvin on Friday April 24, Saturday April 25, and on Sunday April 26 (matinee).