Students make their mark
Cavan has a rich drama heritage. The vibrant amateur drama groups that filled community halls up and down the county for decades have produced a fertile environment for the dramatic arts.
From contemporary exponents like Philip Doherty and Aaron Monaghan to Tom MacIntyre and Shane Connaughton, the county has made a disproportionate contribution to Irish drama.
Building on this sturdy foundation and establishing a framework for the future Cavan Institute offers a Level 5 Certificate in Theatre Performance.
This is one of the QQI courses, along with Music Performance, Music and Sound Production, and Radio Production that the education institute provides.
Pupils of the Cavan Institute course held a lunchtime performance entitled “Fifty Shades of Youth” last Wednesday (April 27). Taking to the stage in Townhall Theatre the actors presented four short plays, with four different stories.
‘Ambition’
‘Ambition’ saw Paige Luddy assume three roles in an engaging short slice of drama. The ease with which the actor transitioned from character to character speaks volumes for her ability. The story of a young lady’s passion to follow her ambition was wonderfully drawn.
‘Tongues of Fire’
In ‘Tongues of Fire’ Tara O’Callaghan, Alva Boylan and Shawna Courtney embark on a journey of magical realism in which the decision of gossiping girls can have a positive or a negative outcome. The trio steered the audience adeptly through the story.
‘Weird’ and wonderful
‘Weird’ delved into themes very pertinent to young adults. Jennifer Ramos and Maria Soares gave us a glimpse of the transition between childhood and being a young adult.
The final show was ‘Lullaby’. Yvonne Schmidt, Harry Glacken and Scott O’Reilly gave ethereal performances as they brought us on a dream trip. The three actors worked well off each other, presenting the audience with a very enjoyable production.
The acting ability on display in the four plays is a testament to the skills gleaned by the performers and show creators on their course.