Irish language drama group take to stage

A newly established Irish language drama group, Ardán Mhaigh Eo, performed their debut drama ‘Na Spéaclaí Draíochta' to a full house in the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar on Thursday, June 18.

Ardán Mhaigh Eo was founded last September in Castlebar with the support of An Baile Seirbhíse Gaeltachta, Conradh na Gaeilge and An tOireachtas.

The play, a comedic farce, went down a treat with the audience, who welcomed the opportunity to attend Irish language drama and music in Castlebar. Under Róisín Uí Chógáin's direction, Seán Ó Cionfhaola, Máire de Búrca, Séamus Mac Conmara and Michael Gill showcased excellent pacing and impact in their performance, giving rise to enthusiastic audience reactions.

As part of the Oíche Ghaelach i Halla an Línéadaigh, powerful musical performances were delivered by the superb Céilí band from St Joseph's Secondary School, Castlebar and by Ceoltóirí Ghaelscoil Raifteirí.

Sean nós songs were performed by Catherine Philbin and Freya Nic Suibhne. Liam Ó Scanláin and Croídhe Ní Dhochartaigh hit the boards with their energetic damhsa ar an sean nós.

Irish Language Planning Officer of An Baile Seirbhíse Gaeltachta, Máire Ní Fhearraigh, said of the night's success: "It was wonderful to see so many people come out to support Irish language drama, particularly in Mayo, a county with three Gaeltacht areas. For an Irish language drama group to have packed the Linenhall was a huge achievement for us, and we simply can't wait to take to the stage again.

"We are always on the lookout for new members to join our Irish drama group, and welcome new additions. Be sure to watch this space," she said.