A weekend of superb drama at Ballina One-Act Festival

Throughout the first weekend of November, the Ballina Arts Centre welcomed drama groups from across the country to compete in a celebration of amateur drama.

The Ballina One Act Drama Festival attracted theatre enthusiasts from across the nation to watch 11 plays over the course of three days. Some of the performances caused the audience to burst into a fit of giggles while others caused jaws to drop as the plot-twist ending was revealed.

All of the participating drama groups had their sights set on qualifying for the All-Ireland One Act Finals in Naas in December. Adjudicator Geoff O’Keeffe had a very difficult decision to make.

During a speech on the final night of the festival, O’Keeffe said: “To the groups that travelled from all over Ireland to entertain us, I applaud you, I applaud your professionalism, I applaud your dedication, I applaud your willingness to put your work out there.” 

The competition was fierce but respectful. Winning was secondary to producing meaningful art. This value was evident in the roar of applause that erupted following the announcement of the winning productions.

The award for Best Play in the Confined category went to ‘Aubade’, a Wilde River Drama Group production.

Best Play in the Open category went to ‘Cider Park’, performed by Letterkenny Music and Drama Circle.

Paddy Sheanon from Bailieborough in Co Cavan was named Best Actor in the Confined category for his performance as Packie in ‘Dying Minutes’. Andrew Tinney of Letterkenny Music and Drama Circle received the award for Best Actor in the Open category for his performance as Georgie in ‘Cider Park’.

Best Actress in the Confined category went to Yvonne Murphy of Wilde River Drama Group for her portrayal of Melissa in ‘Aubade’.

Edel Halliday of Ennis Players was awarded the title of Best Actress in the Open category for her performance as Felicity in ‘Dragonflies’.

The winner of the coveted Adjudicator's Award went to Kieran Kelly. Kelly wrote the script for ‘Cider Park’, which was performed by Letterkenny Music and Drama Group.

The Martin Mitchell Memorial Trophy for the Most Imaginative Production was awarded to Down at Heel Productions for ‘They Also Serve’.

O’Keeffe also expressed gratitude towards the audience: “A play is nothing without an audience and I have really enjoyed getting to know you. I really appreciate the kind words I’ve had from people and the chats we’ve had. But mostly I really appreciate your attention to the groups because the festival needs you and the festival circuit cannot continue without your continued support. It has been lovely to spend this time with you, thank you so much.” 

The amateur drama movement in Ireland fosters a passionate and supportive community. During intermission, members of the audience gathered to passionately debate the merits of each performance over a cup of coffee.

Festival Director Marie Loftus added: “This festival was a success because of the hardworking committee, the team who look after the front of house, hospitality and backstage and the timekeepers who bring their usual warmth and efficiency to the arts centre.”