'Last Apache Reunion' for Navan stage
Navan Theatre Group launched details of its 2013 production at the weekend at a function in Ryan's Bar, Navan. ‘The Last Apache Reunion’ by Bernard Farrell will be staged in Solstice Arts Centre from Wednesday 20th to Saturday 23rd November next. The cast is currently deep in rehearsals for the production. Director, Nigel Ryan is looking forward to bringing Farrell’s ever-popular comedy to the Solstice stage, and confesses that he is feeling the pace but the enthusiasm and energy of the cast and crew is palpable.
Playwright Bernard Farrell was born in Sandycove, Co Dublin. Some of his other works for stage include ‘I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell’, ‘All The Way Back’ and ‘Say Cheese’. Like these, The Last Apache Reunion debuted in the Abbey Theatre.
Set in the early 1990s, The Last Apache Reunion brings together five 30-somethings at their school reunion, some fifteen years after they have last seen each other. We soon discover that time makes memory selective and how, as the evening unfolds, the men of the present are forced to confront the ghosts of the past. The gathering is made complete by two of the men’s wives joining them. Their presence too adds yet more twists and turns to an eventful evening!
As always, Farrell’s male characters are fascinating. They are unique and yet they are truly comic. Whilst full of swagger, they show us a softer centre from time to time.
Navan Theatre Group prides itself on being a community based group and this year sees yet more links with the local secondary schools. A schools competition will run in advance of this year’s production. Nigel has also incorporated some performances by the very talented ‘Young Apaches’.
Navan’s cast is Seán O’Boyle as Harry, Shane Stynes as Jimmy, Séamus McMenamin as Maurice, Robbie Clarke as Nick, Alan Mongey as Paudge, Patrick Fox as Kevin, Cathy O’Brien as Deirdre and Maria Tynan as Jackie. This year’s cast sees a few of familiar faces take to the stage along with new talented members to Navan Theatre Group. The cast hail from Kells, Kingscourt, Dunshaughlin and Navan. To find out more about the group, check out www.navantheatregroup.ie. Tickets are €16/€14 from www.solsticeartscentre.ie or (046) 909 2300.