In 2003, a group of talented youngsters from the Mullingar area were assembled by centre director Sean Lynch. The group collectively became known as the Mullingar Student Players.
Now in their 11th year after the incredible success of April’s sell-out Les Miserables, rehearsals are under way as the Mullingar Student Players embark on their next production, Tennessee Williams’ Sweet Bird of Youth, directed by Sean Lynch and assistant directors Lauren Divine and Hannah Egerton.
Fading Hollywood legend Alexandra Del Lago (Hazel Gavigan ) flees the disastrous premiere of her comeback film. Travelling incognito, she seeks refuge in drink, drugs, and the arms of Chance Wayne (Ben Thompson ), an idealistic young dreamer turned gigolo. A trip to Chance’s hometown in a bid to win back his childhood sweetheart, Heavenly Finley (Dayna Whelan ) sees their relationship of convenience unravel in Tennessee Williams’ vivid and haunting portrait of the destruction of dreams.
Rachel Gallagher plays Miss Lucy the mistress, with Daniel Allen playing Tom (Boss ) Finley and Ben Mulligan as Tom Finley Junior. Other cast members include: Anna Doolin, Aoife Gavin, Aaron O’Dea, Blaithnaid Glennon, Cian O’Farrell, Clecia Rossi, David Brennan, Evelyn Paul, James Craig, Jack McCormack, Megan Ayers, Rachel Thompson, and Sam Gilmartin.
Former Mullingar Student Player and Andrew Lloyd Webber scholarship recipient Daniel Egerton is also lending a helpful hand during rehearsals.
With a cast comprising 19 students, Mullingar has always been a haven for theatre and the arts and now the younger generation is keeping that tradition alive with their vibrancy and enthusiasm while delighting the viewing public in the process. They really must be adding something other than fluoride to the waters of Mullingar!
Sweet Bird of Youth will be running in the Mullingar Arts Centre from September 18-20. Tickets are €10/€8 and are available from Mullingar Arts Centre by calling (044 ) 9347777.
