Memories and Melodies, wirtten by Jean Farrell, is a one-woman drama spaning four decades in the lives of six characters called Mary. Inspired by a true stories, the production will be performed nightly in Athlone Little Theatre from November 8-10.
Jean’s latest offering is a one act drama based on one woman’s comical yet poignant look back on life from childhood in the 1950s to the present.
It draws very much on the influence of religion as taught by the nuns as they prepared young Irish Catholic schoolgirls to emulate the virtues of the Virgin Mary by growing up to be meek, humble, and pure. How well did this help them to embrace the social changes of the decades that followed and how were the fanciful dreams of youth fulfilled?
In the space of a little more than an hour, without pause, Jean explains to the audience the fantastical journey of growing up in Athlone in the 50s and 60s.
A journey of self-discovery, the story is told in the form of a solo performance starring Jean herself, interspersed with songs performed by Athlone’s newest a cappela vocal group Luan Tunes providing a fitting soundtrack to the piece. Appealing to audiences of all ages it will make those old enough to remember cringe with nostalgia and those who are too young to remember laugh out loud at the innocent simplicity of times past.
Without whining or fuming, Jean Farrell avoids the nostalgic sentimental peril of this material. Her six Marys are fun loving girlfriends who grow into practical, generous-hearted an often understated everyday housewives. This is a fast paced story told through the eyes of family happenings in the characters personal diaries.
That diary is a key element in the show. Jean turns to it often, proving to herself that life wasn’t always like this. Directed by Joe McCarrick, the show is performed on a nearly bare stage, bringing the words to life through drama and music.
Admission is €10 and tickets are available from Ursula Hanley by calling (086 ) 3899026. Proceeds of the show go to the Little Theatre fund. Early booking is advisable and seats will be allocated on the night on a first come first served basis.
