Following on from fantastic success in both the US and the UK during the past 12 months, Atlantic Rhythm productions are returning to the TF Royal Theatre, Castlebar, on Thursday August 15 at 8pm. Last April when the Mayo based production group performed at home in the county town the resounding applause and standing ovation received was a talking point with theatre goers for many weeks after. This and the fact that the group are now involved with Michael Baynes and his hard working committee from the gathering event- In Humbert’s Footsteps makes for another great night’s entertainment in the Royal.
Atlantic Rhythm is a development from the Moffatt School of dancing in north Mayo. It has a cast and crew of more than 40 people, the majority of whom are in secondary and third level education. What is unique about this group is the fact that 99 per cent of the performers hail from within the county with the remaining one per cent coming from Sligo. Currently they give their time on a voluntarily basis coming together to perform and promote our Irish culture to the very best of their ability. It is hoped that in time, with correct funding and sponsorship, this could be developed into a fully professional production group providing employment within the county.
The Emigrants’ Farewell itself is a drama portrayed through music, song, and dance with a little of the Irish language thrown in for good measure. The story starts off in present times with a tribute to modern Irish dancing. Through a narration the audience are invited back to Lahardane of 1912, where they are introduced to the fictional family of Mick and Madge Canavan who are preparing for their four young daughters to immigrate to the US on the RMS Titanic. But what is the twist? What will unfold in the house on the eve of this departure? Once more before the end of the story the audience are brought back to the present day.
Tickets cost €20 or €16 for groups of 10 or more and €12 for u12s or €50 for a family ticket. The doors open on August 15 at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm. Tickets are available by phone by calling 094 9023111 or 0818 300 000 or from the Royal Theatre box office and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide and online at www.royaltheatre.ie and www.ticketmaster.ie
