GRANAGH PLAYERS: Reports

1st/2nd Jan:

Excitement is building as the Granagh Players continue their preparations for this year’s eagerly anticipated production, Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’. This adaptation of Pádraic McIntyre’s comedy-drama The Carnival at Glenaduff promises to deliver plenty of laughs, surprises, and unforgettable moments for the audience.

The cast has been hard at work in recent weeks, learning lines, rehearsing, and perfecting Act 1 of the play. With rehearsals running full tilt, the cast is taking a well-deserved break over Christmas to focus on memorising lines and fine-tuning their performances before returning to tackle the rest of the play.

Before the Christmas break, the notorious Boyle brothers—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—made their dramatic arrival on stage. Still “ris” over the events of last year’s carnival, these fearsome characters are not to be trifled with. The Boyles are guaranteed to bring a mix of menace and mischief that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

While much of the plot remains under wraps, Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’ promises to be a rollicking tale packed with colourful characters, quick-witted dialogue, and the kind of humour that resonates with local audiences. Fans of last year’s performance won’t want to miss this one, as the Players continue their tradition of bringing laughter and entertainment to the parish.

The performance weekend dates are set for January 24th, 25th, and 26th, as well as January 31st, February 1st, and 2nd, with all shows starting at 8pm in the Community Centre (V35C584).

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Jan 8th/9th:

The cast has returned from their well-deserved Christmas break, re-energised and ready to dive into the second act. With opening night fast approaching, the Players are busy sourcing props, fitting costumes, and ensuring the staging is just right to bring Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’ to life.

As the carnival approaches, four locals on a hunt for dresses—Sadie, Agnes, Mary, and Sheila—take to the stage in a lively scene set in a clothes shop. With their sharp tongues and quick wit, these fiery ladies ensure no one escapes unscathed. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, this scene is sure to leave audiences howling—and perhaps a little relieved they weren’t in the shop!

The performance weekend dates are January 24th, 25th, and 26th, as well as January 31st, February 1st, and 2nd, with all shows starting at 8pm in the Community Centre (V35C584). The Granagh Players would like to thank their patrons for their continued support and gently remind everyone that attending the first weekend often provides a more comfortable and relaxed experience, as the second weekend tends to fill to capacity. We look forward to seeing you there!

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Jan 15th/16th:

Despite a recent bout of snow briefly slowing progress, rehearsals have continued in Granagh this week as the cast dives into the second act of Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’.

This week, local carnival organisers—Packie, Michael, Tony, and Andy—are busy setting up the tent, hanging lights, and stocking the bar with minerals for the big night. Under Fr. Flynn’s watchful eye, these four bring plenty of laughs, particularly as Tony and Michael mischievously coach the naïve Andy on their so-called “rule of three.” Their antics are sure to bring the house down.

The performance weekend dates are January 24th, 25th, and 26th, as well as January 31st, February 1st, and 2nd, with all shows starting at 8pm in the Community Centre (V35C584). The Granagh Players would like to thank their patrons for their continued support and gently remind everyone that attending the first weekend often provides a more comfortable and relaxed experience, as the second weekend tends to fill to capacity.

As you are all aware, costs have been continually increasing, so unfortunately, we find that we have to increase our admission charges for the very first time: Adults €15 and Students €8. However, we will be accepting card payments at the door.

Seating is limited each night. If the venue is full, you can purchase a ticket for the next night. There will also be a special raffle on the door ticket each evening. We still advise people to arrive early. The shop will be open, serving tea and coffee before the play starts. Ticket holders should note that the doors will close at 7.45pm sharp.

This week, we received the sad news of the passing of Joe Noonan, a former member of the Granagh Players who performed in Sive, The Field, and Poor Beast in the Rain. Joe was remembered fondly by the cast and community for the joy and smiles he brought to everyone involved. It was a sad day for all in the parish. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Thank you for your continued support of the Granagh Players. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

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Dec 22nd/23rd:

It’s the final countdown for the Granagh Players as rehearsals enter their final stretch before opening night this weekend. Excitement is in the air as the cast and crew put the finishing touches on their production of Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’. Final rehearsals are underway, and the background team is busy ensuring that the set, costumes, and scenes are just right.

This week, the band—Jack High and the Premier Aces—have arrived on stage, busy setting up, sound-checking, and fine-tuning their songs to bring the play to life. Their lively performances promise to add an extra layer of excitement to the nights ahead. Meanwhile, the cast is hard at work, bringing their characters to life with energy and charm. From the sharp-tongued locals and mischievous carnival organisers to the notorious Boyle brothers and everyone in between, the cast is ready to deliver an unforgettable night of entertainment for audiences.

The performance weekend dates are January 24th, 25th, and 26th, as well as January 31st, February 1st, and 2nd, with all shows starting at 8pm in the Community Centre (V35C584). The Granagh Players would like to thank their patrons for their continued support and gently remind everyone that attending the first weekend often provides a more comfortable and relaxed experience, as the second weekend tends to fill to capacity.

As you are all aware, costs have been continually increasing, so unfortunately, we find that we have to increase our admission charges for the very first time: Adults €15 and Students €8. However, we will be accepting card payments at the door. Seating is limited each night. If the venue is full, you can purchase a ticket for the next night. There will be a special raffle on the door ticket each evening. We still advise people to arrive early. The shop will be open, serving tea and coffee before the play starts. Ticket holders should note that the doors will close at 7.45pm sharp.

Thank you for your continued support of the Granagh Players. We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an unforgettable production of Send ‘Em Home Sweatin’!