Valley Drama Group bringing Friel classic 'Dancing at Lughnasa' to life
The Delvin-based Valley Drama Group is preparing to stage one of Ireland’s most beloved plays, 'Dancing at Lughnasa' by Brian Friel. Under chairperson Feilim O’Neill, and supported by a hardworking committee of seven, the group has poured months of passion into this production.
Since September, rehearsals have been in full swing under the direction of Patricia Ronan from Navan. Adding a unique creative depth to this production is the artistic direction and choreography of Colette Lynch from Delvin. Inspired by a recent personal journey, Colette has shaped this production not only as a theatrical experience but as a heartfelt act of giving - bringing joy, movement, and meaning to the stage while raising vital funds for Tullamore Hospital Oncology. The Valley Drama Group has once again brought together a talented local cast including Lynzi Delaney as Rose, Lorraine Ledwith as Agnes, Carmel Moran as Maggie and Shauna Martin playing Chrissie. Dancing at Lughnasa, set in the warmth and wildness of a Donegal summer, tells the story of the Mundy sisters - strong, spirited and bound by love and survival. Into their lives returns father, Jack, played Mick Roban; altered by his years away, carrying stories and beliefs that unsettle the familiar rhythms of faith and family.
Watching it all unfold is young Michael (Feilim O’Neill and Hayden Morrissey, whose voice guides us through memory and longing. And then like a gust of freedom comes Gerry Evans (Johnny Lynch), sweeping down the road in his straw hat, full of charm, music, and uncertainty.
Will he stay? Will Michael come to know his father? What becomes of the sisters as the world shifts beneath them?
Patricia Ronan explains: "The play dances between joy and heartbreak, music and silence, leaving audiences to wonder, not just what happens, but what remains."
The production of ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’ takes place at Delvin Hall on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th April at 7.30pm, with a matinée on Sunday 26th April at 3pm.