Millrace drama take on classic mcdonagh play

After a very successful seven night run last May, Millrace Drama Group bring their production of Martin McDonagh’s thrilling play ‘The Cripple of Inishmaan’ to the Ramor Theatre for two nights this week.
This is widely regarded as one of McDonagh’s best plays. Described as a dark comedy, the play is set against the backdrop of the filming of Robert Flahertys’ ‘Man of Aran’ documentary that was shot on Inishmore in 1934.
It is set in the island community of Inis Meain, of the Aran Islands and tells the story of Billie Claven (the cripple) who seeks a bit of excitement in his life and sees the perfect opportunity when a real Hollywood film crew is coming to a neighbouring island to make a film. Billie decides to try out for a role in the film and much to everyone’s surprise, he gets his chance.

Twists
We are introduced to a host of flawed characters as the action twists and turns on an emotional rollercoaster. Every aspect of Irish life is examined and held up for our inspection. ‘Cripple’ Billy Clavin, raised by two elderly foster aunts, dreams of making it big in Hollywood and escaping the island and its small minded inhabitants.
He had hoped to gain the love of Slippy Helen and uncover the truth about the fate of his parents. The play is laced with black comic and politically incorrect moments in its critique of ‘authentic’ Irishness and what it means to be Irish. We all learn some truths; as does Billy.
A fine cast and a strong production bring this play to life for the audience in all its comic, cruel and tender moments.
‘The Cripple of Inishmaan’ runs in the Ramor Theatre on Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 4. Tickets are available from the Ramor Theatre booking office at 049 8547 074 or online at www.ramortheatre@cavancoco.com