RTÉ ANNOUNCES DRAMA BACKING DESPITE FINANCIAL PRESSURE
The RTÉ Chairman, Mr Tom Savage has announced that the national broadcaster will continue it's sponsorship of the All Ireland Drama Festival for a further 3 years. Speaking at the awards banquet of the 2013 festival in the Radisson Blu hotel in Athlone on Saturday night, the Chairman announced the extension of the sponsorship to over 700 drama enthusiasts from across the island of Ireland, describing the drama movement as "Ireland's finest community". Mr Savage stated that the national broadcaster is going through a period of "severe financial pressure" but nevertheless it's sponsorship package with the All Ireland Drama Festival is being renewed for a further 3 years. "RTÉ is thrilled to be involved" he said; the drama festival "needs no talking up".
The announcement by RTÉ was warmly welcomed by the Festival Director Joe Mac Carrick and the Chairman of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, Sean Corcoran. Speaking after the awards announcements on Saturday night, the festival director said, "Given the acute economic challenges which faces our National Broadcaster, this announcement by the Chairman of RTÉ is all the more significant and demonstrates the high regard that the Chairman and his Board has for the festival and all it represents. This continued association with RTE assures that the amateur drama movement will maintain and develop its national profile in the coming years."
Kilmeen Drama Group from West Cork were crowned All Ireland Drama Champions for an unprecedented third year in a row at the gala awards ceremony in Athlone's Radisson Blu Hotel as the curtain came down on the 61 Festival on Saturday evening last.
Kevin O'Donovan and the late Tim Coffey directed Kilmeen's production of 'The Playboy of the Western World' by John Millington Synge. This is the group's fourth win in their 17 appearances at the finals which they first entered in 1980. Steeped in theatrical tradition, this is an emotional win for Kilmeen following the passing of their highly regarded director, the late Tim Coffey, who had scooped the Best Director award in the group's production of 'The Weir' only last year.
Nora Scannell acting as the Widow Quinn won the Best Supporting Actress award to the delight of almost 700 drama enthusiasts in the Athlone Radisson Blu hotel.
Meanwhile Silken Thomas Players, came second with their play 'Mercury Fur', while Prosperous Dramatic Society came third with 'The Goat or Who is Sylvia?'.
Best Director went to Pat Whelan of Bridge Drama from Co Wexford in their play 'Out of Order'. This was their first appearance in the finals in Athlone.
Other award winners included 3rd placed Prosperous Drama Society who got Best Actor (Robert Massey) in their production of Edward Albee's 'The Goat or Who is Sylvia?'. Best Actress went to Maura Clancy in Corofin Dramatic Society's production of 'By The Bog Of Cats'. It was a glittering evening of celebration in Athlone and the compere for the evening was RTÉ's Karina Buckley.
Speaking before the awards presentation, the Festival Director, Joe Mac Carrick, remarked on the success of the festival with nine superb productions on stage, a lively and entertaining Festival Club, an absorbing Fringe and a town that looked its best with themed window displays, flags and flower arrangements. He thanked Athlone Town Council, Westmeath County Council, Athlone businesses and the local media for getting full square behind the festival and contributing to the successful event it has become.
11/05/2013 HAT TRICK FOR KILMEEN!
Kilmeen Drama Group from West Cork were crowned All Ireland Drama Champions for an unprecedented third year in a row at a gala awards ceremony in Athlone's Radisson Blu Hotel on Saturday May 11 as the curtain came down on the 61st RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival.
Kevin O'Donovan and the late Tim Coffey directed Kilmeen's production of 'The Playboy of the Western World' by John Millington Synge. This is the group's fourth win in their 17 appearances at the finals which they first entered in 1980. Steeped in theatrical tradition, this is an emotional win for Kilmeen following the passing of their highly regarded director, the late Tim Coffey, who had scooped the Best Director award in the group's production of 'The Weir' only last year.
Nora Scannell acting as the Widow Quinn won the Best Supporting Actress award to the delight of almost 700 drama enthusiasts in the Athlone Radisson Blu hotel.
Meanwhile Silken Thomas Players, came second with their play 'Mercury Fur', while Prosperous Dramatic Society came third with 'The Goat or Who is Sylvia?'.
Best Director went to Pat Whelan of Bridge Drama from Co Wexford in their play 'Out of Order'. This was their first appearance in the finals in Athlone.
Other award winners included 3rd placed Prosperous Dramatic Society who got Best Actor (Robert Massey) in their production of Edward Albee's 'The Goat or Who is Sylvia?'. Best Actress went to Maura Clancy in Corofin Dramatic Society's production of 'By The Bog Of Cats'.
It was a glittering evening of celebration in Athlone and the compere for the evening was RTÉ's Karina Buckley.
Speaking before the awards presentation, the new Festival Director, Joe Mac Carrick, remarked on the success of the festival with nine superb productions on stage, a lively and entertaining Festival Club, an absorbing Fringe and a town that looked its best with themed window displays, flags and flower arrangements. He thanked Athlone Town Council, Westmeath County Council, Athlone businesses and the local media for getting full square behind the festival and contributing to the successful event it has become.
Joe also expressed his sincere gratitude to main sponsors RTÉ for their continued support of the festival.
29/04/2013 Shining Light of the Athlone Stage Takes Final Bow
As news quietly went round late last Thursday evening that Bina Deery had passed away, a sense of loss descended like a gentle mist on all who knew and worked with her. For truly, a great character actor of the Athlone stage had finally bade farewell.
Bina gave her heart and soul to the stage and enjoyed every aspect of theatre whether as a performer or as a spectator. A native of Arklow, Co Wicklow, Bina was a talented member of her local dramatic society. She was also a gifted piano player being a Feis Ceoil winner in her youth.
Bina arrived in Athlone in the mid 1960s and quickly became involved with Athlone Little Theatre where, for the following 30 years, she would play many memorable roles most famously in the title role in Brian Friel's "The Loves of Cass Maguire", a role she played on two occasions. She starred in several John B Keane plays as well as many English farces such as "Brush With A Body" and "Pools Paradise".
Interspersed with her many Little Theatre productions, Bina was a regular performer in dozens of shows with Athlone Musical Society including "Oklahoma", "Guys and Dolls", "Fiddler on the Roof" and "The New Pirates".
Bina was a hard working committee member with both the Little Theatre and the Musical Society and when not on stage, was a dedicated assistant back-stage ably helping out in the all important make-up department. Bina also assisted in many Tops of the Town productions.
Bina joined the committee of the All Ireland Drama Festival in 1973 and was a welcoming figure in the foyer of the Dean Crowe Theatre, building many friendships with visiting groups over the years. Last year the committee bestowed her with Honorary Life Membership in honour of her many years of dedicated service.
On behalf of the committee, festival director Joe MacCarrick extended his sympathies to Bina's husband John, her sons Ian and Vincent, her sister, brothers and many relatives and friends. "Bina will be sadly missed and fondly remembered and as friends gather for the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival this week, many stories of her on-stage experiences and her off-stage banter will be recounted", Joe said.
Ar dheis Dé a raibh a anam.
11/04/2013 "Simply Am Dram" to air from Tuesday 16th April.
A TV documentary following the fortunes of amateur drama groups who take to the road in a bid to reach the 2012 RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival finals in Athlone will be aired next Tuesday 16th April on RTÉ One at 7pm. The six-part series was filmed last year and followed seven very different groups capturing the real sense of excitement, passion and desire that exists in this gruelling, but utterly compelling world of competitive drama. It follows the highs and lows as the competing groups strut their stuff in front of discerning adjudicators in a bid to get through a preliminary festival process in order to make the final in Athlone. While the focus is on who would eventually win the event, the series gives a deep insight into the importance of amateur drama in local communities involving ordinary people who give their time freely for no reward other than the fulfilment of their dreams and the entertainment of theatre-goers.
10/04/2013 Programme Announced for 61st RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival
Two times champions, Estuary Players from Dublin will lead the field of nine drama groups when
the 61st RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival gets underway at the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone from
Thursday 2nd to Friday 10th May inclusive.
The competition is the All Ireland Open Finals, and the nine competitors have earned their place
in Athlone having qualified from a series of preliminary festivals held throughout Ireland over the
past number of weeks. Some 29 groups participated in the 'circuit' and those who have made the
cut for the final showdown will present a standard of production which is unequalled outside of
the professional stage and indeed, some argue, is well on a par with some of their professional
counterparts.
The programme is as follows:
Thursday 2nd May, Estuary Players, "The Boys Next Door" by Tom Griffin
Friday 3rd May, Thurles Drama Group, "All My Sons" by Arthur Miller
Saturday 4th May, Kilmeen Drama Group, "The Playboy of the Western World" by J M Synge
Sunday 5th May, Bangor Drama Club, "Moonlight and Magnolias" by Ron Hutchinson
Monday 6th May, Corofin Dramatic Society, "By The Bog Of Cats" by Marina Carr
Tuesday 7th May, Prosperous Dramatic Society, "The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia" by Edward Albee
Wednesday 8th May, Ballyduff Drama Group, "Dancing at Lughnasa" by Brian Friel
Thursday 9th May, Bridge Drama,"Out of Order" by Ray Cooney
Friday 10th May, Silken Thomas Players, "Mercury Fur" by Philip Ridley
The final awards ceremony will take place on Saturday 11th May in the Radisson Hotel at 9.00 pm,
admission by ticket only available at the theatre during the festival.
At a gathering at the theatre last Sunday at which the running order was decided, new Festival
Director, Joe MacCarrick said audiences will be treated to a rich and varied programme of Irish and
international theatre. "The programme has all the ingredients a festival audience could wish for.
We have comedy, tragedy, power and passion which is the essence of theatre. These productions
will fulfil our desire for entertainment and indeed some will stretch our emotions to their limits,
providing plenty of fuel to inform after-performance debate. It will be an utterly captivating
experience", said Joe.
Representing the Festival's main sponsors, RTÉ, Karina Buckley said that the national broadcaster
was delighted to be involved with the festival as it fits perfectly with the station's commitment to
the arts and the community. Apart from the usual broadcasts from Athlone during Festival Week,
RTÉ hopes to set up an interactive space on site where people can engage with a behind-the-scenes
look at programme making.
Full details of all RTÉ's activities as well as a packed Fringe programme will be made known in the
coming weeks. Log on to the festival's official website at www.dramafestival.ie for further details.
If previous years are anything to go by, seats will be in huge demand so early booking is advisable
to avoid disappointment. Book online through the festival website or contact the Theatre at
090 649 2129.
23/03/2013 Tim Coffey RIP – Farewell to a Champion
Drama enthusiasts around the country were shocked and saddened at the news that
Tim Coffey, all-Ireland winning director with Kilmeen Drama Group, has passed
away peacefully last Thursday. Under his stewardship, Kilmeen won the RTÉ All
Ireland Drama Festival finals in Athlone on three occasions. The group from West
Cork first won the title in 2006 with A Crucial Week In The Life Of A Grocer's
Assistant by Tom Murphy. They regained the title in 2011 with another Murphy play
A Whistle In The Dark, crowning that success last year with Conor McPherson's The
Weir.
Tim was passionate about drama and, as evidenced by his successes as a director, was
an extremely talented master of the stage commanding the respect of his cast and the
admiration of his rivals.
A popular figure among theatre goers, Tim had a warm smile and a gentle personality
which endeared him to everyone who met and spoke with him. He and his group were
annual visitors to the festival, even when not in competition. Patrons will be familiar
with the "Kilmeen Corner" of the lounge in the Dean Crowe Theatre where Tim and
company regaled the assembled in story and song long into the small hours.
Commenting on his passing, Festival Director Joe MacCarrick said Tim was a true
champion in every sense of the word. "On behalf of the Festival Committee I wish to
extend our heartfelt condolences to Tim's wife Juliette and his sons Dylan and Jack,
and to all his colleagues in Kilmeen Drama Group who went on the festival circuit
this year without Tim, who had only recently fallen ill."
Joe continued, " This news is quite terrible and is a major blow to the drama
community coming as it does not three months after we lost another great drama
personality in Pat Connaughton. It is hard to believe that both directors competed in
Athlone last year and are now gone. This is a huge loss for all of us associated with
the festival, for organisers and patrons alike. Both will be deeply missed".
In true theatrical tradition, Kilmeen Drama Group fulfilled their festival commitments
on the circuit last week-end and being likely to qualify for Athlone, will have the
strength of Tim's enduring spirit to guide them on the last leg of their journey.
Ar Dheis Dé a raibh a anam.
09/01/2013 Appreciation – the late Pat Connaughton, RIP
It was with disbelief and sadness that the world of amateur drama greeted the news of
the death of Pat Connaughton R.I.P., Ballinpark, Bunclody, Co Wexford, who passed
away on Saturday December 29th last.
Pat, a native of Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, was a well-loved and much
respected figure at the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival finals in Athlone over many
years having competed as both actor and director with Enniscorthy Theatre Group and
most recently as director with Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group.
It was with Enniscorthy Theatre Group that Pat achieved his greatest dramatic
success. The group dominated the festival programme during the '80's and '90's
winning the All-Ireland title on three occasions, in 1996 and 1997 and again in 1999.
These were the years of the Esso Trophy, the much coveted award in amateur drama
for 40 years. Pat was the group's winning director in 1999 and as this was Esso's last
year as main sponsor, Pat has the distinction of being the last winning director to lift
the iconic Trophy.
Enniscorthy last appeared at Athlone in 2004, but Pat was back to winning ways with
Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group winning the All Ireland Confined finals in 2007,
thereafter bringing award winning productions on the Open circuit reaching the finals
in Athlone in 2009 and 2012.
Joe MacCarrick, director of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival, Athlone, said Pat
was a major force in amateur drama and his passing has sent shock waves around the
country. "On behalf of the committee I extend my deepest sympathies to Pat's wife
Eilis, his daughter Mairead and sons, Paul, Eoin and Timmy. While their personal loss
is immense, the drama festival will feel a palpable void in not having Pat around. His
gentle spirit and warm personality will be sorely missed", Joe said.
Ar dheis Dé a raibh a anam.
(12/11/2012) RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival committee members honoured.
Six long-standing members of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival committee were
conferred with honorary life membership at the festival's AGM which was held
recently. Mel O'Flynn, Therese Byrne, Mary Corcoran, Bina Deery, Breffni Rowan
and Liam Kelleher, who between them have given over 200 years of dedicated
service, were presented with scrolls marking the occasion.
Mel served on some of the earliest committees and distinguished herself by winning
the Best Actress award at the finals in 1960. Among Therese's many roles, she spent
many years documenting the affairs of the festival as records secretary. Mary is the
longest serving member and continues to look after the bookings which she once
administered from her caravan in the Dean Crowe forecourt, which many patrons will
remember. Bina served in the box office and warmly welcomed patrons and groups
in her front-of-house role. Breffni was hall manager and always ensured that facilities
were in top order for the event. Liam provided technical expertise and support to the
competing groups during the day as they prepared for their performance on the night.
In one of his final duties as Festival Director, Billy Nott presented all six with a
scroll to commemorate their achievements. "You have done the festival proud", he
said. "Your commitment to the festival and your attention to detail throughout your
many years of service is greatly appreciated. Your warmth of character and your help
and support to the groups and patrons alike is what has made the festival the success
that it is today", Billy added.
The AGM reviewed the 2012 festival which was a tremendous success with full seat
occupancy recorded throughout the nine nights. Plans are already afoot for next year's
event which will run from 2nd to 11th May 2013 with Tony Rushforth occupying the
adjudicator's seat. Another feast of Drama and Fringe is guaranteed.
As Billy Nott stepped down after 10 years at the helm, the committee elected Joe
MacCarrick as his successor. Joe has been to the fore on the publicity side of the
festival and is looking forward to the task ahead. "My aim is to run a first class
festival where groups are well catered for and patrons and sponsors are warmly
received and appreciated", said Joe. He said that he would be open to fresh thinking
and new ideas and hoped that both the festival and Athlone would share in the mutual
benefits which accrue from hosting a major national event.
Joe led tributes to Billy Nott saying that under his leadership the festival saw
many major developments including the coming on board of RTÉ and the renewed
connection with the Abbey Theatre. "Billy gave all the members a sense of purpose
where our contributions were always valued, and he encouraged, in a gentle and
unforced way, changes which benefited the festival" commented Joe.
Joe also acknowledged the importance of RTÉ's involvement with the festival.
"There is no doubt that RTÉ's association with the festival has added enormous
prestige to the event and this is felt among drama communities right across the
country. I look forward to continuing working with RTÉ in achieving our aims".
Joe also acknowledged the contributions made by Athlone Town Council, Westmeath
County Council, the local media and the many local businesses and patrons for their
loyal support.
The other officers elected were: Hon. Secretary: Harry Smith, Assistant Secretary:
Julie Drew, Treasurer: Ronan Bushell, Sponsorship: Shay Ellis, PRO: Alan Shaw,
Fringe: Majella Flanagan, Hospitality: Regina Bushell, Festival Club: Ray Collins,
Theatre Manager: Aidan Flanagan.
Apart from the honorary life members, the new committee also includes Billy Nott,
Mary Berry, Siobhan Bigley, Margaret Egan, Eileen Jennings, Aisling Kelly, Olive
Martin, Tommy Martin, Anthony Merrigan, Mary Merrigan, John McGee, Doreen
O'Shea, Marguerite Smith and Brian Toolin.
Maeve Walsh, R.I.P.
The AGM passed a vote of sympathy following the recent death of Maeve Walsh,
ADCI member and Director of Western Drama Festival, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo.
A native of Glenamaddy, Co Galway, Maeve grew up steeped in drama which she
enjoyed with a passion. Maeve was a frequent visitor to the All Ireland Finals in
Athlone, an event she attended over many many years. She was unflinching in her
support for Athlone as host venue for the All Ireland, especially at times when this
position was threatened. In extending sympathy to her husband Joe and her children
Dearbhla, Alan, Caríosa and Brian, Joe MacCarrick said that her larger-than-life
character would be truly missed. "No festival was complete without Maeve's presence
at some point during the run. She enjoyed the competitive as well as the social aspects
of the event and so many members of the committee have great memories of her.
Maeve was a trooper in every sense of the word", said Joe. May she rest in peace.
(13/05/2012) Kilmeen Drama Group Retain Title
Kilmeen Drama Group from West Cork were crowned All Ireland Drama Champions for the second year in a row at a gala awards ceremony in Athlone's RadissonBlu Hotel last Saturday May 12 as the curtain came down on the 60th RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival. Tim Coffey, who directed the group's production of 'The Weir' by Conor McPherson, picked up the award for Best Director. This is the group's third win in their 16 appearances at the finals which they first entered in 1980. Steeped in theatrical tradition, this victory comes fast on the heels of their 1-Act victory in Ennis last December with 'Disco Pigs' by Enda Walsh which they performed in Athlone as a fringe event during the week. Meanwhile Silken Thomas Players, who came second, picked up awards for Best Actor (Liam Quinlivan) and Best Supporting Actor (Colin Malone) for their production of 'Jerusalem' by Jez Butterworth. This production also received the inaugural Abbey Theatre Award which will be an annual award presented to one of the nine finalists each year affording the recipient the opportunity to present their production at The Peacock in July.
Other award winners included 3rd placed Corofin Dramatic Society who got Best Actress (Maura Clancy) and Best Stage Lighting awards for their production of Frank D Gilroy's 'The Subject Was Roses'. This was a remarkable achievement for a group who made their first appearance at the Athlone finals and they were suitably thrilled with their achievement.
Best Supporting Actress went to Ballyduff's Martha Dunlea for her role in 'The Crucible' by Arthur Miller; Best Set went to Prosperous Dramatic Society for their presentation of 'Deadline' by Robert Massey and the Best Stage Management award went to Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group for their production of Marina Carr's 'By The Bog Of Cats'. The group's child star Roisin Barry received an Adjudicators Special Award.
It was a glittering evening of celebration as befits a diamond jubilee event. Compere for the evening was RTÉ's Anne Cassin whose father, Barry, adjudicated at the festival on no fewer than 5 occasions.
Speaking before the awards presentation, Festival Director, Billy Nott, remarked on the success of the festival with nine superb productions on stage, a lively and entertaining Festival Club, an absorbing Fringe and a town that looked its best with themed window displays, flags and flower arrangements. He thanked Athlone Town Council, Westmeath County Council, Athlone businesses and the local media for getting full square behind the festival and contributing to the successful event it has become. He was also thankful to all the patrons who attended the festival in such great numbers.
Billy also expressed his sincere gratitude to main sponsors RTÉ for their continued support of the festival. ADCI Chairman Sean Corcoran also thanked RTÉ for raising the profile of the festivals countrywide and he especially thanked Karina Buckley for her daily broadcasts from Athlone which were eagerly awaited in all corners of Ireland.
RTÉ Chairman, Tom Savage, recalled the origins of theatre in ancient Greece and said that amateur drama is one of the great cultural strands running through the fabric of Irish life.
Fiach MacConghail, Artistic Director of the Abbey Theatre, said that the National Theatre was proud of its amateur roots and its offer of the Peacock stage was in recognition of the value of amateur drama in communities the length and breadth of Ireland.
Adjudicator Brian Marjoribanks summed up his visit by saying that the festival was one of his finest experiences in many, many years. He thanked the people of Athlone for their warmth and friendliness and commended the nine performing groups on their choice of material which was both demanding and entertaining. He said that the standard of acting and direction had no comparison in his native Scotland and he was completely overwhelmed by the attention to detail of all the sets on stage.
So the curtain falls on another successful festival and as the diamond jubilee celebrations come to a close, the organisers can be proud of their endeavours. It was a fitting tribute to Brendan O’Brien, Colm Kelly and the many pioneers of the early years who have left us the legacy of a national festival of drama for Athlone to have and to cherish for another 60 years.
(12/05/2012) Shop Window Display Competition
Here are the results of the Shop Window Display Competition which was part of the Festival Fringe and was an important aspect of creating a festive atmosphere around the town:
1st St Vincent de Paul Shop , 2nd Callinan's Butchers , 3rd Nell's Closet and Special Commendation to Room in Bloom. Over 40 shops took part and the organising committee are very grateful to all who participated and put in a tremendous effort in creating a festive atmosphere around the town. Well done to all.
(01/05/2012) Abbey Chairman to Open Festival
Distinguished jurist and avid theatre enthusiast Dr Bryan MacMahon will perform the
opening ceremony of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival on Thursday night, May 3rd, at
the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone. A passionate theatre fan Dr MacMahon was appointed
Chairman of the Abbey Theatre in 2005 and he has been a regular visitor to the drama
festival in Athlone over the years.
A native of Listowel, Co Kerry, Dr MacMahon pursued a career in law becoming High
Court judge in 2007, retiring from the bench in 2011. He is the son of Bryan MacMahon, the
internationally acclaimed novelist, short-story writer and playwright whose many works were
produced in The Abbey including his renowned play 'The Honey Spike'.
As the finishing touches are put to this year's jubilee event, the 60th festival is completely
booked out, a phenomenon which is unprecedented. In the running are 4 groups who have
already won the competition twice as well as a group appearing for the first time. All nine
competitors have performed tremendously well on the circuit generating huge interest among
the patrons. Adjudicator, Brian Marjoribanks, will have the unenviable job of presiding
over the competition and his critical analysis will be eagerly awaited after each nightly
performance.
Meanwhile, the town has come alive with colour to welcome the influx of visitors who will
descend on the town for the festival. Athlone town council has pulled out all the stops in
making the town look its best and with local shops participating in window displays and
sporting county flags, the atmosphere will be immensely uplifting.
There are plenty of off-stage activities taking place at various venues around Athlone and
people are encouraged to take full advantage of the entertainment on offer. One event which
is a must-see item is a Costume Display featuring Students from St Joseph's College,
Summerhill, Athlone in the Athlone Town Centre at 3.00 pm on Friday 4th May. Depicting
"Drama through the Ages". the live exhibition sees students dressed as many famous
characters from stage and screen using recyclable material uniquely designed with a dramatic
twist.
Another item worth mentioning is Athlone Miscellaney which takes place on Sunday 6th
May at 12.30 pm at the RadissonBlu hotel. Themed as 'Connections', Athlone Literary
Group present a programme of readings by local writers, including Athlone Rotary Young
Writer winner, interspersed with musical entertainment by local artists.
Meanwhile RTÉ will present a range of programmes from Athlone over Festival Week
including Today with Pat Kenny and the Ronan Collins Show. Karina Buckley will give
festival reports each day on RTÉ Radio 1 around midday.
(23/04/2012) Minister Jimmy Deenihan TD Launches 60th Annual RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival
At a reception in the Abbey Theatre on Wednesday 18 April, Jimmy Deenihan TD,
Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, officially launched the 2012 RTÉ All-
Ireland Drama Festival.
The annual festival, which celebrates its 60th year, is the premier theatrical event of
its kind in Ireland, showcasing the very best of Irish amateur theatre and attracting
hundreds of visitors to Athlone, where it takes place every year.
During the week of the festival, RTÉ will broadcast daily reports from the RTÉ All Ireland
Drama Festival on RTÉ Radio 1 with RTÉ's Karina Buckley reporting for The Ronan
Collins Show, Today with Pat Kenny, Drivetime and Marian Finucane; Today with Pat
Kenny and Ronan Collins will also be broadcasting live from Athlone. Nationwide on RTÉ
One television will capture all of the flavour and excitement with festival highlights on
Monday 14 May.
Held under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, the festival sees
the top nine amateur drama groups in the country compete for the All-Ireland title
and the prestigious Festival Perpetual Trophy, as well as for several major acting
and technical awards.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Deenihan said: "It is a tremendous achievement
for everyone involved that this Festival has been running successfully for the past
60 years. Drama groups such as those taking part in this competition are central to
bringing art to the heart of the community. The abundance of talent and dedication
displayed by the nine successful amateur drama groups is inspiring and all those
involved should be very proud of their achievements. I would like to acknowledge the
role of the Director of the National Theatre Senator Fiach MacConghail in making the
Peacock stage available for one of the final productions in July. I would also like to
congratulate RTÉ on having the vision to sponsor this very important cultural event
for a number of years."
The nine-day festival takes place in the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone from Thursday
3 May to Friday 11 May. Nine drama groups from around the country will perform
and compete in the festival.
At the launch, Chairman of the Abbey Theatre Bryan McMahon announced the
launch of the inaugural Abbey Theatre Award; the winner of which will go on to
perform on the Peacock stage for a three night run. He said: "The Abbey Theatre
fully recognises the strength of the local drama movement in Ireland. With its local
energy and dynamism, the local drama movement educates, informs and creates
a critical audience which feeds into the aims and objectives of Ireland's national
theatre. The Abbey Theatre pledges its continued support for the movement with
the launch of the Abbey Theatre Award. Each year the winners of this award will be
invited to perform on the Peacock stage for a three night run."
Bill Nott, Director of the RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival, said: "We are delighted to
have RTÉ as our sponsors in this our 60th year and indications are that it will be a full
house every night of the Festival. The challenging nature of this year's programme means that theatre-goers are in for a celebration of top class drama."
The RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival is steeped in history, with many famous faces
from the arts and beyond having tread the boards at the All-Ireland finals including
Maurice O'Doherty, Simon Delaney, Gerard Stembridge, Una Crawford O'Brien and
Seamus Mallon. The festival can also be credited with launching the career of one of
Ireland's most popular and prolific writers. In 1959 a group from Listowel, Co. Kerry
won the All-Ireland finals with a new play by a then-unknown playwright. The play
was Sive and the Athlone win launched John B Keane's writing career.
The RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival has grown and developed into a flagship
tourist event while at the same time aiming to achieve the highest standards in
amateur drama. The festival is supported by a lively Fringe which runs throughout
festival week and features street theatre, school workshops, art exhibitions, writer's
workshops and other theatrical performances at locations around the town.
RTÉ's Managing Director of Corporate Development, Brian Dalton, said at the
launch: "RTÉ is delighted to have had such a strong association with the Festival
over the past eight years. The support and nurturing of a thriving arts and culture
sector in Ireland is one of the cornerstones of Public Service Broadcasting activity."
(16/04/2012) Demand High as Drama Festival Tickets Go On Sale.
With just two weeks to go to the opening of the 60th RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival, final
preparations are well underway for what promises to be another bumper event.
Within hours of the booking office opening last week, the opening night, which sees Prosperous
Drama Group perform "Deadline" by Robert Massey, was booked out. Thanks to online booking
facilities, access to purchase tickets is available 24/7 which increases the speed at which seats are
sold.
This is not a bad complaint for the Festival organisers, and they do stress that the signs so far show a
huge interest in all the performances, so early booking is advisable in order to avoid disappointment.
The committee was honoured recently at a civic reception given by Athlone Town Council to mark
the 60th Festival. The event has been held continuously in Athlone since 1953 and Mayor Alan Shaw
paid tribute to former festival directors Brendan O'Brien and Colm Kelly "whose diligence and
commitment has left us a legacy for which we can be truly proud". Mayor Shaw also congratulated
the festival's current director, Billy Nott, as well as sponsors RTÉ, in raising the profile of the festival
and in consequence, keeping Athlone as a place of prominence in Irish theatre. "Athlone Town
Council has worked in partnership with the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival in giving the town an
enhanced colourful and festive appearance as it prepares to welcome all nine finalists and their
supporters", he said.
To this end, traders are encouraged to dress their shop windows in a theatrical theme as Athlone
Chamber have announced a Shop Window Display competition which will run from 20 th April next
and continue throughout the festival. Flags and banners will be a-plenty and the Town Council will
have tasteful flower arrangements in place in prominent locations.
Capturing the celebratory mood of this year's special occasion, an exhibition of photos and festival
memorabilia from years past will be on show at Athlone Public Library from April 25 th courtesy of
Gearoid O'Brien, son Brendan O'Brien, who directed the festival from its inception in 1953 until his
death in 1992.
Full details of all events surrounding the festival including information on the nine competing
productions are available on www.dramafestival.ie . Flyers will be available soon in shops, the tourist
office and Athlone Public Library and Civic Centre.
(09/04/2012) Programme Announced for 60th RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival
Prosperous Dramatic Society will have the honour of opening the 60th RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival
when the curtain rises at the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone on Thursday 3rd May next. With their
production of 'Deadline' by Robert Massey, the group hopes to follow on from their success at the
event last year where they finished as runners-up.
The draw to decide the night on which each group will perform was made at the theatre on Easter
Monday. Welcoming the nine finalists, Festival Director, Billy Nott expressed his congratulations to
the groups on their success on making it to the final. "You are each of you winners in your own right
and we are truly proud to have you here today and wish you well in the forthcoming finals in May",
he said.
Echoing these sentiments Sean Corcoran, chairperson of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland,
under whose auspices the festival is run, said that he did not envy the task of adjudicator Brian
Marjoribanks when he takes up his role on May 3rd.
Representing the Festival's main sponsors, RTÉ, Karina Buckley likened Athlone to the Athens of
ancient Greece where people gathered to "worship at the altar" of drama.
Athlone Mayor Alan Shaw said he looked forward to the 9 nights of plays in early May and indeed to
the final celebration night in the Radisson hotel on Saturday May 12th. "Our close relationship and
working partnership with the Festival Committee ensures that the town looks its very best during
festival week", the Mayor declared. In acknowledging the association of RTÉ he said, "It is clear that
the role of RTE has been instrumental to the huge success story that surrounds the various Drama
Festivals throughout the country and indeed the Festival Final week here in Athlone".
Current Champions Kilmeen Drama Group from West Cork will be among 4 groups who are vying to
win their third All Ireland title. The other contenders Estuary Players, Dublin; Silken Thomas Players,
Kildare and Cornmill Theatre Group from Co Leitrim, will be expected to put in a strong challenge.
Ballyduff Drama Group from West Waterford last won in 2004 and were runners-up on two
occasions since. With their gripping production of Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible', the group are well in
contention.
Thurles Drama Group, Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group and Corofin Dramatic Society have
featured prominently on the circuit and having been previous winners of the All Ireland Confined
finals, they have rightly earned their place to compete on the Open stage.
The festival runs nightly at 8.00 pm at the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone from Thursday 3rd May until
Friday 11th May inclusive and the programme is as follows:
| PROGRAMME 2012 | ||
| Thursday 3rd May | Friday 4th May | Saturday 5th May |
| Prosperous Dramatic Society Deadline By Robert Massey |
Silken Thomas Players Jerusalem By Jez Butterworth |
Cornmill Theatre Group The Seafarer By Conor McPherson |
| Sunday 6th May | Monday 7th May | Tuesday 8th May |
| Kilmeen Drama Group The Weir By Conor McPherson |
Thurles Drama Group The Seafarer By Conor McPherson |
Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group By the Bog of Cats By Marina Carr |
| Wednesday 9th May | Thursday 10th May | Friday 11th May |
| Estuary Players Three Days of Rain By Richard Greenberg |
Ballyduff Drama Group The Crucible By Arthur Miller |
Corofin Dramatic Society The Subject Was Roses By Frank D. Gilroy |
Booking is now open at the Theatre Box Office phone 090 6492129, or through the booking link at the festival website www.dramafestival.ie .
2nd April 2012 – Nine Finalists Declared
The following are the nine finalists through to the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festivalwhich runs at the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone from Thursday 3rd May to Friday
11th May inclusive, performing nightly at 8.00 pm
The running order will be announced at a draw in the theatre on Easter Monday, 9th
April. Booking opens Wednesday 11th April.
BALLYDUFF DRAMA GROUP
The Crucible.
By Arthur Millar.
BUNCLODY/KILMYSHALL DRAMA GROUP.
By the Bog of Cats.
By Marina Carr
COROFIN DRAMATIC SOCIETY
The Subject Was Roses.
By Frank D. Gilroy
CORNMILL THEATRE COMPANY
The Seafarer.
By Conor McPherson.
ESTUARY PLAYERS.
Three Days of Rain.
By Richard Greenberg
KILMEEN DRAMA GROUP
The Weir
By Conor McPherson.
PROSPEROUS DRAMATIC SOCIETY.
Deadline.
By Robert Massey.
SILKEN THOMAS PLAYERS
Jerusalem
By Jez Butterworth.
THURLES DRAMA GROUP
The Seafarer
By Conor McPherson.
(29/02/2012) Athlone Prepares for 60th Festival
The 2012 All Ireland Drama Festival Circuit got underway with the opening of Rush festival, Co Dublin last Thursday night, Feb 23rd and will continue until the curtain
And so begins the gruelling trek for 29 drama groups who between them will enter
35 local festivals taking place the length and breadth of the country over the coming
weeks. All participating groups are vying to be one of the nine finalists who will
appear at the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival which will take place nightly at the
Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone from Thursday 3rd May until Friday 11th May, with the
gala presentation of awards taking place on Saturday 12th May in the Radisson Blu
Hotel, Athlone at 9.00 pm.
This year marks the 60th All Ireland finals which have been held in Athlone
continuously since the inaugural event in 1953. The festival has seen many changes
over the past six decades, but its appeal and attention to high standards in drama has
never waned.
Festival Director, Billy Nott, says that preparations for the finals are at an advanced
stage as the outcome of the Circuit is eagerly awaited. "The local organising
committee are planning many cultural events over the next two months to promote
the big occasion" said Billy. "A number of fringe events will take place in March
including a presence at this year's St Patrick's Day parade, drama and lighting
workshops for schools from 20th to 22nd March and an acting workshop for adults in
the Passionfruit Theatre over 5 Mondays commencing Monday 26th March" he added.
The latter event will be hosted by Paul Meade from the Lir Academy and Artistic Director of Guna Nua Theatre Company. Full details of this and all forthcoming events are available on the festival website at www.dramafestival.ie
Meanwhile the drama of the Circuit is set to unfold over the coming weeks and
enthusiasts can follow the plight of Kilmeen, Cornmill, Silken Thomas and Ballyduff,
along with all the other participants, on the Drama Council's informative website at
www.adci.ie. Full details of all the festivals, groups and plays as well as continuously
updated league tables in Open and Confined categories can be found on that website.
(11/01/2012) 2012 Calendar Launches Festival's Diamond Jubilee
The organising committee of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival has recently launched a 2012 calendar which was produced as a result of a children's colouring competition organised last November. The pictures were designed by Athlone Arts Group and were coloured in by pupils from 12 primary schools in the Athlone area.
The initiative is part of the committee's campaign to profile its 60th festival which will run this year from Thursday 3rd May to Saturday 12th May.
Many Fringe events are being considered for staging in the run up to the main event and these will be announced in the coming weeks as plans are finalised. The objective is to heighten awareness of the festival around the town in advance of the 60th celebrations. There will be a strong dramatic focus, with many exhibitions and youth oriented activities taking place.
Meanwhile, the festival committee wish to acknowledge the support of Athlone Arts Group, IMC Athlone who supported the prizes and, of course, the staff and pupils of the participating schools without whose involvement the calendar would not have been possible.
The prize winners were: Divina Tansia, Junior Infants, Athlone Mixed N S; Leeanne McDonagh,4th Class, Clonbonny N S; Mary Sheehan, 3rd Class, Cornamaddy N S; Molly Dolan, 6th Class, St Peter's N S; Jack Martin, 4th Class, Ballybay N S; Paul Oliyide, 2nd Class, Dean Kelly N S; Eoin Collins, 1st Class, Cornafulla N S; Shane Greene, 5th Class, St Mary's N S; Shirley Lin, 5th Class, St Joseph's N S, Summerhill; Mercy Johnson, Senior Infants, St. Paul's N S; Aisling NicChonmhara, 1st Class, Scoil na gCeithre Máistrí; Alex Ratcliffe, Senior Infants, Coosan N S;
The calendars are available free of charge at Athlone Library and at some other locations around the town. The winning pictures and details of future festival events will be posted on www.dramafestival.ie
(01/10/2011) Festival Gears Up for Diamond Jubilee
Organisers of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival are preparing to celebrate its diamond jubilee next May when the curtain rises on the 60th festival. Since the first Festival in 1953, Athlone has played host to this prestigious cultural event, which has grown in leaps and bounds over the years.
Overcoming various challenges across six decades, from advances in home entertainment to economic downturns, the festival has remained the flagship event in the amateur drama calendar, as well as being the Midlands' landmark tourist event.
In recent years, the festival's spiritual home, the Dean Crowe Theatre, has seen almost 100% seat occupancy over the nine nights of the festival. At its AGM recently, the festival's organising committee was told that demand for seats this year was unprecedented with 4 nights completely sold out before opening night.
In reviewing the 2011 festival, Director Billy Nott thanked all concerned for making the event the success, which it was. The continued association of the main sponsor RTÉ came in for particular praise as both the festival and Athlone have benefited enormously from the extensive coverage afforded by the national broadcaster. Billy also thanked the local businesses, the local media, Athlone Town Council and Westmeath County Council Arts Department for their support and assistance.
Such is the high esteem with which the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival is held that this year the Abbey Theatre sought to restore a past tradition (which ran during the 70s and early 80s) by inviting one of the festival finalists to perform on the hallowed boards for a three night run during the summer. Silken Thomas Players were chosen to perform their production of Angels in America by Tony Kushner at the Abbey's Peacock Theatre from 29th to 31st July last. The significance of this event cannot be underestimated as amateurs seldom get the opportunity to perform on the professional stage and by doing so it raises the standards to which all groups can aspire. . The amateur drama movement is especially grateful to Abbey director Fiach MacConghail and Chairman of the Abbey Board, Judge Bryan McMahon who were influential in bringing this occasion about. It is hoped that the Abbey invitation will become an annual occurrence.
With an eye to the forthcoming diamond jubilee, the committee have discussed plans for the 2012 festival. It is intended to hold the awards ceremony as a stand alone event on Saturday 12th May at 9.00 pm in the Radisson Hotel. The nine nights of performances will now commence on Thursday 3rd May running to Friday 11th May inclusive, with the Festival Club running nightly at the Dean Crowe Theatre Bar. There will be a programme of Fringe and other publicity events organised in the run up to the festival starting with the issue of a 2012 calendar comprising work from a specially commissioned children's art competition.
