Drama Circle Revive Mc Guinness Classic

Sligo Drama Circle have revived a gem of a play, The Factory Girls by Frank McGuinness, which will be presented at the Hawk’s Well Theatre from next Tuesday, November 12th, until Saturday 16th. Now a well established and critically acclaimed dramatist, with works such as “Someone to Watch Over Me”, “Innocence”, “Observe the sons of Ulster marching towards the Somme”, Mc Guinness began writing aged 30 during a period of unemployment. His first play was “The Factory Girls”. Interestingly, his mother worked in a local shirt factory and his inspiration was the need to give a voice to those who are oppressed or ignored, be they soldiers, hostages or factory workers.

In a Donegal shirt factory, five women must face the threat of redundancy. Led by Ellen, they decide to confront both management and union and fight to determine their own future. Written in 1982, the play mirrors the harsh realities of today’s sit-ins and closures. The factory girls challenge the employers and their conditions of work, while all the time opposing the straight-jacketing of society and their men folk.The play displays the love and humour of its female characters. It bears testimony to the strength and skills of working women, the culture of work they represent and the threat to destroy that culture. The women articulate their anger, courage and compassion throughout the unfolding drama.

Director, Damien Quinn, has brought together a strong cast. Ellen is played by Marianne Fahy, who has extensive stage experience both professionally and with local groups. This is her first outing with the Drama Circle. Vera is played by Ann-Marie Byrne, who was an outstanding success in the Drama Circle’s acclaimed production of Charlie’s Aunt last year. Playing Rebecca is award-winning actress Nicola Morrison, who won a best actress award in the UK in Everyman’s production of “The Mai”. Pat Sweeney from Ballyshannon, who plays Una, re-establishes a link with the Drama Circle, having last performed in late 1960’s productions. Niamh Curley, who plays Rosemary, has starred in recent productions such as The Odd Couple and Charlie’s Aunt. Ronan Brennan is a newcomer to Sligo theatre, having transferred from Monaghan. He plays Rohan, while the part of Bonner is played by the vastly experienced Michael Roper.

Damien Quinn is well known to Sligo audiences through his School of Drama and his performances in the Yeats Suppers, Big Maggie and the 1989 production of Juno and the Paycock that toured to the United States. This is his directorial debut. The opening night, Tuesday 12th, has been taken to highlight and support the Alzheimer’s Society. Their work is constant and ongoing, and any person wishing to contribute to this dedicated work can contact Mrs. Barker, Dunally Centre, 071-46400.

from The Sligo Champion, November 7th, 2002