A laugh a minute at the mart
Reviewed
by Sean Mahon
An exciting and hilarious new one act play called ‘A Night at the Mart’, written by Joe McManus received an amazing reaction over the weekend, when it was staged in Drumlane Community Centre as part of the Jubilee celebrations.
The author Joe McManus also has a role in the production. He told The Anglo-Celt that play focuses on family and togetherness in a community and it is laced with lots of comedy. It is set in a canteen at a mart and features a robbery, which is a reflection of modern day life.
This is the second time that Joe McManus gives us an insight into life in the fictitious village of Keenlara. His last play ‘Lies’ was also set there and now we are back with this story line.
Joe got the inspiration to write this new play following a visit to Carrigallen Mart one night when a man related to him ‘sure without this place I’d be lost’.
The play illustrates with great dramatic effect how a group of ordinary unassuming characters are willing to fight for their own and work together to overcome adversity. Their jolly attitude is refreshing and uplifting and shows a warm bond, which in itself becomes a powerful force.
“The main object of staging the play is for people to have a good enjoyable night’s entertainment,” said Joe.
He says the play starts off in 2010 and soon moves onto 2015. “A lot of things have changed in the last five years – you can see from the funeral scene in 2010 to the present day – a father requires help.”
This exciting new drama is directed by Sean Feeney from Killeshandra Dramatic Society and Brian Reilly from the Cornmill Theatre Group has been most helpful.
Curtain up
The production will come to Milltown this weekend on Saturday and Sunday night. It will also be staged at the Ed Reevy Festival in Cavan Townhall on Sunday, October 16, and they are likely to be featured at a festival in Bawnboy.
The cast includes Declan Burns, Joe McManus, Sean Flynn, Dan Sweeney, Francine Reilly, Shane Reynolds, Megan Reilly, Colm McCormac and Laurence O’Halloran.