Shercock Drama Festival to serve up a week of stellar theatre
37th Annual Shercock Drama Festival runs March 13-21
The 37th Annual Shercock Drama Festival is set to captivate audiences from March 13-21, promising a week of top-quality theatre featuring some of Ireland’s most talented drama groups. This year’s festival boasts an exciting lineup of performances, with eight groups from Tyrone to Wexford and Galway to Kildare competing in both the open and confined sections of the competition.
The festival will be officially opened by Liz O’Hanlon, an award-winning writer and founding member of Bailieboro Drama Group. O’Hanlon, whose one-act play “Dying Minutes” won the All-Ireland One Act Finals in December 2024, is also part of the cast of the hit show “The Night Joe Dolan’s Car Broke Down”. Closing the festival is Ollie Kenny, course director of The Drama League of Ireland Summer School, held annually at the University of Limerick.
This year’s festival adjudicator is none other than renowned playwright and theatre director Padraic McIntyre. With a wealth of experience in both writing and directing, McIntyre’s insights and expertise will undoubtedly add a layer of prestige to the event.
The festival offers a rich and varied programme, with something to suit every theatregoer. Five groups will compete in the open section, while three will vie for honours in the confined section, all hoping to secure a place in their respective All-Ireland Finals.
The week kicks off on Thursday, March 13, with Dundalk Theatre Workshop presenting “Art” by Yasmina Reza. This comedy explores the strains on friendship when three longtime friends clash over their differing opinions on what constitutes art. The opening night is proudly sponsored by Frazer’s Topline Kingscourt.
On Friday, March 14, Bradán Players from Co. Kildare will perform “Little Gem” by Elaine Murphy. This poignant and humorous play follows three generations of women from a Dublin family as they navigate life’s challenges with courage and wit. We are thrilled to have Link Credit Union to sponsor this event.
Saturday, March 15, sees Glenamaddy Players from Co. Galway take the stage with “Class” by David Horan and Iseult Golden. This thought-provoking and often funny play delves into the chaos of a parent-teacher meeting, highlighting the highs and lows of the education system. A special thanks to GN Nail Artistry for sponsoring this night of theatre.
Sunday, March 16, features Bridge Drama Group from Co. Wexford performing “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Simon Stephens. This gripping story follows 15-year-old Christopher as he investigates the death of a neighbour’s dog, uncovering truths that turn his world upside down. The Sunday night programme is brought to you by Frank Mc Dermott Milking Machines.
On Monday, March 17, Castleblayney Players from Co. Monaghan will present “The Woodsman” by Steven Fechter. This intense drama explores the struggles of Walter, a convicted child molester, as he attempts to reintegrate into society and confront his past. Niamh Smyth TD is the nightly sponsor for this night of theatre. Please note: This play is not suitable for children. Tuesday, March 18, brings Newtownstewart Theatre Company from Co. Tyrone with “The Remains of Maisie Duggan” by Carmel Winters. This dark comedy follows Kathleen as she returns to Ireland after her mother’s supposed death, only to find her alive but suffering from a bizarre delusion. Making this night of drama possible is Senator Sarah O’ Reilly.
Chaos
On Thursday, March 20, Cornmill Theatre from Co. Leitrim will perform “A Whistle in the Dark” by Tom Murphy. This powerful play tells the story of Michael Carney and his family, a group of hard-drinking Irish immigrants whose lives spiral into chaos. Thank you to Shaffrey landscaping for financial support of this event.
Again, this play is not suitable for children. The festival concludes on Friday, March 21, with Ballycogley Players from Co. Wexford presenting “Lend Me a Tenor” by Ken Ludwig. This hilarious farce set in a Cleveland hotel sees an opera manager’s plans thrown into disarray when world-famous tenor Tito Marelli appears to be dead. Will the show go on? This night of theatre is sponsored by Roe Oils.
Showcasing the best
The Shercock Drama Festival is a highlight of Cavan’s cultural calendar, showcasing the best of amateur theatre and providing a platform for talented performers and writers. With its diverse programme and high-quality productions, this year’s festival promises to be a memorable celebration of the arts.
The Drama Festival committee is proud to have the support of its main sponsor, Tabetex whose generous contribution has been instrumental in sustaining this event year after year.
They are also deeply grateful to our individual and nightly sponsors, Angretia ltd, The Bridge Tavern, Cavan County Council, Sillan Tours and Duffy’s Costcutter whose support ensures the continued success of this cherished community event. Their commitment to the arts helps make the festival a vibrant and accessible experience for all.