G. B. Shaw Classic From Drama Circle

“How He Lied to Her Husband” is a wonderful one act satire by George Bernard Shaw currently in rehearsal by Sligo Drama Circle. A delightful offering, it contains sparkling language, caustic humour and seering social commentary, all the trademark features of George Bernard Shaw. The play tells the story of Henry Apjohn, a young idealistic dreamer/poet. ”The Adonis”, as Mr Shaw describes him, is played with wonderful flamboyance by Barry Duignan, walking on air as he woos the object of his desires, Aurora Bambas. Aurora, not being as young as she used to be, basks in the attention bestowed upon her by the beautiful youth. Henry has written a series of poems for the gorgeous Aurora, but alas her husband, Teddy, the gruff more experienced man of the world, has managed to get his hands on the said volume of lyrical love compositions. As Henry and Aurora discuss the complexities of this “sticky situation”, Teddy returns to confront the would be lovers. The results are hilarious, with even a bout of fisticuffs thrown in!

Set in Aurora’s drawing room in south Kensington, in the early 1900s, this period piece from Sligo Drama Circle proves to be a wonderful evenings entertainment. The twittering, melodramatic Aurora is played by the very experienced Anne Marie Byrne. Teddy, the husband, is portrayed with excellent condescension and suspicion by Peter Milne. This is Peter’s first endeavour with Sligo Drama Circle, bringing with him over 20 years experience ranging from working with disadvantaged children to teaching drama at third level, all over the U.K and Ireland. Michael Leyden, in the director’s chair, shows great insight into the work of G. B. Shaw, translating itself into an excellent working relationship with his cast.

“How He Lied To Her Husband” starts its run with two performances on Friday and Saturday December3rd and 4th at 8.30pm in the S.D.C Performance Space, Market Yard. (behind French restaurant), and over the following weeks will be performed in such diverse venues as the Nazareth House, the Yeats Building, the Model-Niland Centre, the Glens Centre Manorhamilton and a parlour over a pub in Manorhamilton. More news of dates and venues next week.

from The Sligo Champion, November 24th, 2004