Ballyglunin will be transported back 50 years this month when a stage production of The Quiet Man will be performed at the iconic railway station which featured in the famous film.
Ballyglunin Railway Restoration Project in association with Abbey Acts Drama Group, will produce what will be first production, in more than 60 years, of Maurice Walsh’s classic book/play, on Friday July 19, Saturday July 20 and Sunday July 21.
The station, which featured prominently in the John Forde classic will be brought back to life by Frank Mahon’s adaptation of the original Quiet Man story
In 1951, the cast and crew of the film arrived at Ballyglunin Railway Station (Castletown in the film ) to shoot the scenes of what is now a global phenomenon. Leading lady in the film, Maureen O’Hara, has officially endorsed the restoration project from her new home in the United States.
The play will run for three nights from Friday 19 to Sunday July 21, commencing at 8pm. This unique event marks the opening of Abbeyknockmoy’s week of The Gathering. The Storehouse at Ballyglunin Station is being transformed into an intimate venue to host an audience of up to 240 for the weekend. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ballyglunin.com or in local outlets.
Mark Gibson, spokesperson for the project, said he has been amazed by the drive and enthusiasm of all those involved in making this a reality.
“I have no doubt that this occasion will be a defining chapter in the history of Ballyglunin station.”
Chairperson of Abbey Acts, Marian Williams, said the group is thrilled to be part of this special event.
“Our cast fully realise the significance of this performance. The play is already receiving international interest.”
The Ballyglunin Railway Restoration Project was established in 2004 to restore the station back to its former splendour. The project has submitted an application for LEADER funding to establish a high quality visitor centre for the west of Ireland. Proceeds from The Quiet Man production will be dedicated to the restoration of the station.
The event aims to recreate some of the exciting atmosphere that existed during the original filming, so get your tickets for what should be a great evening of drama.
Tickets can be purchased for €15 (€12 concession ) at www.ballyglunin.com or at the following locations: Ballyglunin Post Office, Quinn’s Shop, Tuam, Donohoe’s Spar, Abbeyknockmoy.
For further details regarding the production, contact Mark Gibson on 087 2866174 or Marian Williams on 087 967 7732.
