Stunning performance by Shoestring Theatre Company
The Charleville Friends of Marymount Hospice present a cheque for 8,748 the proceeds of the Charleville Song Contest to Lilly and Antoinette O'Sullivan of Marynount Hospice Cork. Included are Brenda Foley, Eamon Dundon, Martin O'Flynn, Valerie Foley...
Thursday February 25 2010
THE Shoestring Theatre Company's production of Jim Nolan's 'The Salvage Shop' which opened its run at the Schoolyard Theatre Charleville on last Sunday night is a stunning performance of the Waterford playwright's work.
Directed by Kevin O'Shea, to say that this is an exceptional piece of theatre is an understatement. For Jim Nolan's play is simply superb and the Shoestring cast do it full justice and over the two hours they have their audiences either rolling with laughter or reaching for the tissues to wipe away the tears.
The lead role of Sylvie Tansey, exquisitely played by newcomer to the group Padraig Hastings, who is the conductor of the Garris town Brass Band.
Some people think it is time for Sylvie to hand in his baton but he is reluctant to do so and this creates a conflict with his son Eddie, a role beautifully played by Willie Lyons, winner of the actor of the year award at the 2009 All-Ireland Drama Festival in Athlone for his role of Kenneth Mc Allister in 'A Night in November.'
There isn't a weak link in the cast of six and Michael Dorgan as Stephen Kearney, Mary O'Sullivan as Rita Shanahan (last seen as Aunt Lizzie in Philadelphia Here I Come'), Michelle Lehane, another newcomer to the group is Katie Tansey (Eddie's daughter) and Ray Scanlon as the much-maligned Costello, each enhance their reputations as top class amateur actors and give excellent support to the two leads.
Kevin O'Shea's deft touches as a director par excellence is seen to good affect in his delicate handling of the production and his innate ability to find the right people to fill roles is never more aptly demonstrated.
The set, which is split level showing the clutter of the salvage shop on the ground floor and Sylvie's bedroom upstairs, is magnificent in its detail and this along with the music and songs of Pavorotti completes all the elements for another triumph for Kevin O'Shea and the Shoestring Theatre Company.
The theme of the play, revolving around the local Brass Band has struck a chord with local families, many of whom, have connections to the Charleville Brass and Reed Band for generations and evokes for them many cherished memories of times past.
The play continues its run on tonight Thursday February 25 and on Saturday (27) and Sunday (28) and on March 1 and 2.
Early booking is advisable to ensure your seat for this unique production.
