A Word To Theatre Lovers

Sligo Drama Circle is about to launch several major fund-raising schemes and activities in its efforts to build a theatre in Sligo. The Circle is organising a “value for money” project called “Friends of the Sligo Theatre” – a simple season ticket scheme whereby all who want regular theatre in the town as well as those who wish to see a permanent theatre erected will buy their tickets in advance. A spokesman tells me the Circle is determined to give value for money and is planning to present eight different productions during 1974. “Men Without Shadows”, by Jean Paul Sartre, has already been performed in Sligo Town Hall, and such was the response on the final might of its initial run that it is certain to return in the near future.

“The Mother”, by Martin Gorky, is in full rehearsal at the moment and will shortly take the boards, while other plays in the pipeline include “Stephen D” by James Joyce; “The Millionairess” by G. B. Shaw; O’ Casey’s “Juno and the Paycock”; “At the Hawk’s Well” and “Deirdre” by W. B. Yeats and at least two other productions during the autumn/winter season. To become a “Friend of the Sligo Theatre”, all one has to do is buy a season ticket for 1974. This will entitle the ticket holder to two seats for each play produced and will cost £10. The stimulus provided to the Circle would be enormous – not only would its supporters fund its many ventures and encourage it in its work, but they would also ensure that Sligo will have a theatre company more active than any other in this country excluding full time professionals.

Anyone interested should contact the Drama Circle at the Yeats Memorial Building, Sligo. People to ask for are Joe Meehan, Liam Mc Kinney and Lionel Gallagher. “We appeal particularly to other drama groups in the North and West to take some season tickets as we would welcome their support during their off-season”, said a spokesman. “Please help us to make this venture a success, and while you’re at it, why not persuade your friends to become “Friends of the Sligo Theatre”. Why not indeed!

from The Sligo Champion, On The Line, by Seamus Finn, March 15th, 1974