Moville Drama Group ready to bring the house down with comedy classic
Audiences are in for a treat later this month when the Moville Drama Group takes to the stage with a much-loved Irish comedy promising plenty of laughs and some early Christmas cheer.
The troupe is putting the finishing touches to its production of ‘A Wake in the West’, the popular, fast-paced comedy written by Mayo playwright Michael J. Ginnelly, which will run for five nights at St Eugene’s Hall from Tuesday, November 17, to Saturday, November 21.
Producer and director Eamon McLaughlin, who also takes to the stage as one of the nine cast members, says he is really looking forward to opening night after months of preparation.
The group has been rehearsing since early September, with Eamon delighted at how the production is coming together.
“It’s a good light-hearted comedy, and hopefully it’ll bring a bit of early Christmas cheer to the town,” he said.
“It has been performed throughout Ireland over the years by many groups, and it’s always been well received.”
Set against the backdrop of an Irish wake, the play serves up a lively mixture of humour, eccentric characters, unexpected developments and the sort of mischief that can turn even the most solemn of occasions on its head.
The Moville Drama Group has been working hard to bring the production to life, with Eamon praising the enthusiasm and commitment shown by everyone involved.
The cast comprises Paul Bredin, Edelle McDaid, Seamus McGranaghan, Maura Harkin, James McDaid, Genevieve McLaughlin, Gail Snodgrass, Eamon McLaughlin and Majella Gill.
Edelle McDaid will be particularly familiar to television audiences following her recent appearance on RTE's hit, The Traitors.
“They have rehearsed with enthusiasm, and they have all been really helpful in getting the whole production together,” Eamon added.
“I’m really happy with how all our preparations are coming together. All we need now is the support of audiences far and wide to come and see us.”
Eamon, who has been involved in putting on plays for approximately 40 years, also emphasised the importance of keeping Moville’s longstanding drama tradition alive.
He believes local drama is about much more than simply putting on a show, providing an important social outlet and bringing people together through a shared love of performance.
“I’ve always had a great interest in drama, which is a great social activity and it’s very much part of the DNA of the Irish community,” he said. “We’ve been brought up with that tradition and I’d like to maintain it.”
The five performances will take place nightly at 8pm in St Eugene’s Hall, Moville, from November 17 to 21.
There is no advance ticket booking, with admission payable at the door. Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for children.