Community combines talents for 'blacklight' drama

I Am Tree will be staged in the Townhall this Friday

Pod Youth Theatre bring an exciting new drama to the Cavan Townhall stage using creative staging.

'I am Tree' is a tale told from the perspective of a tree and promises to take the audience on "a journey about life, love and human adventure".

Pod Youth Theatre - formerly Ramor Young Players - will perform the ambitious under the guidance of Artistic Director Trina McCann.

Pod Youth Theatre caters for young people from the age of 8-18 and promotes youth theatre opportunities that focus on the artistic, personal, and social development of young people. They adopt an ensemble approach as a fundamental principle of practice, involving young people in decision-making and aspiring to the highest artistic standards and production values.

The natural theme of the play coincidentally reflects the organic way in which it was devised - originally from a seed by Creative Voice.

Creative Voice is community a group set up in 2018 by Carolann Farrelly and Maura Williamson aiming to enhance arts participation in County Cavan.

"It endeavours to create a person centred space where the participant may find social integration and confidence through appreciation of the arts. Workshops are held introducing a variety of art forms and this year the group chose to experience a production," explains Carolann. "They have worked hard writing and producing the new Blacklight play I am Tree."

As the project grew Creative Voice invited other groups to join them in their new venture. Working from the Family Focus Resource Centre, Create to Connect Group Killeshandra created wonderful art pieces to be enjoyed in the show and have the busy job of stage management. The workshops were facilitated by Marie Smith Sculptor, and Carolann Farrelly, supported by Cavan Arts Office

HSE Service users at Clogher House Cavan and Virginia Day Care Centres also lent their artistic flair and created many pieces and props that will grace the stage supported by CCLD - Cavan County Local Development, Meanwhile members of the Men’s Shed in Belturbet are creating the main visual: the tree.

Guest artist Raquel Montero Calero will perform with dance and movement while Paul Farnan looks after sound and lighting.

Blacklight theatre style

"This production is performed using a rarely seen blacklight theatre style. This uses UV lighting to create wonderful visual illusions. "It is a delight to watch for adults and children alike. The production will open a magical world before you and will be a mesmerising treat for the eyes!"

I Am Tree is presented by Creative Voice, Pod Youth Theatre, Create to Connect, Clogher House & Virginia Day Care Centre will take place on Friday, December 16 at the Town Hall Cavan at 7pm. Tickets €12/€10 concession.

Booking online: www.townhallcavan.com or call the box office on 049-4380494 Tuesday – Friday 10am to 4pm.