Hoodwink set for All-Ireland

Belturbet-based Hoodwink Productions is heading to the All-Ireland One Act Drama Finals 2025 with their production Wilding.

The Western Drama Festival finals will take place at St Brigid’s Hall Theatre, Tubbercurry, Sligo, from December 5–7. Written by Elaine Birkett and directed by Phil Gilbride, both from Belturbet, Wilding unfolds against the hauntingly atmospheric backdrop of a moonlit lakeside in 1981 Ireland. The play delves into themes of friendship, loss, trauma, and resilience.

The Cavan-based company dominated the stage circuit this year, earning multiple accolades. At the Corn Mill Theatre’s 21st Annual One Act Drama Festival, Elizabeth Doonan received Best Actress (Confined) for her commanding portrayal of Fiadh Connolly. Festival adjudicator Evelyn O’Sullivan praised the production, describing it as “one of those rare pieces where everything lands exactly as it should".

Hoodwink also won Best Stage Craft at Carrigallen, a recognition for the technical team of Jeff Keogh, Mark McDermott, and Seamus Farrell.