Wonderful drama deals with issues that transcend time

Review: The Half Coat at Cavan County Museum

Johann Farrelly

A full house attended the Cavan County Museum to catch Tara Maria Lovett’s new play The Half Coat on Friday, September 22 for the Ballyjamesduff venue’s Culture Night offering.

Inspired by the first edition of The Anglo-Celt, the drama plays out in dual time frame, set in both 1846 and the present day in County Cavan. It tells the family history of how one man’s actions lead to circumstances which affect his future family generations later.

The audience were instantly captivated as the compelling life of a young tailor, Ruá Rowan (played by Joshua McEneaney) began to unfold.

Condemned to be hung for a horrific crime, Ruá is imprisoned awaiting his fate.

The tense atmosphere was softened by the introduction of a young lady named Edi Kinsella (played by Niamh McPhillips), who began to visit the incarcerated Ruá.

Tensions began to rise as Edi attempted to help the troubled man. She visits his son Con (also played by Joshua), requesting help to make Ruás final days more enjoyable.

However, the plot quickly thickens as Con threatens to commit a similar crime to avenge Ruá.

You could sense the audience getting on edge as Con embroiled Edi in his plot, leaving the kind hearted lady in despair.

The atmosphere relaxed momentarily as the play moved into modern day Ireland. The difference in time was cleverly portrayed with the minimum of effort.

Dominick (Joshua), a tailor, and his wife Medbh (Niamh) were introduced to the plot. Descendants of Ruá, the young married couple deal with the demands of modern life.

A feeling of despair descended on the audience as they were introduced to the relatable issues faced by the couple.

Heartache was felt as Dominick decided to leave his home and wife and travel abroad to pursue a once in a lifetime opportunity. This leaves Medbh struggling with the problems on her own.

This is a wonderfully written piece of theatre by Tara Marie whose inspiration from an inanimate object brings you on a journey through a family’s history.

It has laugh out loud moments and subtle humour. It also has its dark side dealing with the real issues relevant to both the past and the present.

Designed and directed by Declan Gorman, his attention to detail made this a fantastic experience for all. Erin Lynch’s excellent work as Stage Manager must also be complimented. The actors Niamh McPhillips and Joshua McEneaney’s performances were exceptional and due credit to two very talented and professional actors, who played their various roles brilliantly.

Such is the talent displayed by both playwright and actors, The Half Coat demands to further productions.