Drama Circle’s Return with “Juno”

Sligo Drama Circle makes a welcome return to the Hawk’s Well with a new production of “Juno and the Paycock” this week. Under experienced director, Frankie Brannigan, this ever popular O’ Casey classic runs from tonight (Wednesday) to Friday February 18th (excluding Sunday 13th) nightly at 8.30pm. Set in a Dublin tenement house in 1922, “Juno” has the great O’ Casey characters of Juno Boyle, Joxer, Captain Boyle and Maisie Madigan. These creations are among O’ Casey’s finest achievements and earned him an international reputation.

Likewise, “Juno” has a special place in the history of the Drama Circle. By invitation, the 1989 production of Walter Mc Donagh delighted audiences in the vast Sheldon Theatre in St. Louis. That American tour with “Juno” will long remain one of the all-time highlights in the Circle’s history. Now, the current production is seeking to emulate the spectacular achievements of its predecessor. It’s an “almost new” cast, the only link with the American “Juno” being Yvonne Curran, who plays Mary Boyle, the role she played with distinction in St. Louis. Frankie Brannigan has assembled a cast brimful of experience and enthusiasm. We can look forward to another interesting Juno Boyle from the very experienced Noreen Egan, while Cormac Sheridan’s performance as Capt. Boyle is eagerly anticipated.

The large cast also includes sparkling performances from Kenny Donagher, Dave Mc Keown, Bob Mc Donagh, Enda Eames, Rita Walsh, Áine Gilmore, Brian Woods and Brian Mc Gauran. We’re told that seats are scarce from Monday to Friday, owing to large scale Leaving Cert student interest in the production, but the Hawk’s Well will cater especially for an adult audience on Saturday next, February 12th. It should be well worth a visit.

from The Sligo Champion, February 11th, 1994