Theatre fans won’t be disappointed when they see the autumn line-up of shows at Roscommon Arts Centre, who have been working hard behind the scenes to come up with a re-imagined programme of brilliant professional theatre that can all be performed in line with Government guidelines.
From brides on the run from their own weddings to stories of explorer Tom Crean and the return of Mikel Murfi as Pat Farnon this theatre programme packs a rather large punch for small audiences when it gets underway next week, compliments of Seamus O’Rourke.
O’Rourke opens the programme with a return to one his earlier shows – 'The Sand Park'. Written and performed by Seamus, this is the story of James Antony Lowry – a man who cherishes the family hub – the fun and mayhem of his rural existence. He knows what it’s like to lose, but his loved-ones are never lost, as long as he has the Sand Park.
Seamus O’Rourke has become widely known for his simple storytelling – capturing rural Irish life in a way that both amuses and affects in equal measure. His writing takes a rare approach – his acting oozes with an energy and passion that comes from his love of the land and his art.
Recently nominated for an Irish Times Theatre Award for Best Actor in Mark Doherty’s play ‘TRAD’, The Sand Park is another opportunity to see one of our most popular playwrights, Seamus O’Rourke’s earlier works at Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday, September 17.
Mikel Murfi will also return to the stage in September with another opportunity for audiences to see 'The Man in the Woman’s Shoes'.
This will be the fourth occasion for audiences to spend an evening in the company of the loveable Pat Farnon as we join him on his trip to town for some 'business' and meet a host of colourful characters along the way.
In October the focus will be very much on female performers, COVID-19 permitting, with an eclectic programme in the planning that includes Rose Henderson who will be well known to Fair City fans from her days in the soap, who is hitting the road with her one-woman show, 'According to Sydney' and actress Sarah-Jane Scott is a bride on the run in the award winning 'Appropriate'.
Later in the season, there are plans to bring back Aidan Dooley’s sell-out show from 2019 'Tom Crean Antartic Explorer' and Mikel Murfi will also return in the companion show 'I Hear You and I Rejoice' to 'The Man in the Woman’s Shoes'.
In line with current Government guidelines, capacity remains restricted for all events and there are a limited number of single tickets available for all shows.
New protocols are also now in place for patrons attending shows – but feedback to date has been positive and we are heartened by this.
Tickets are now on sale for both September and October’s programme and can be booked via box office on 0906 625824 or online at: www.roscommonartscentre.ie
