Entertainment

Union Jacks In Siamsa Tíre As ‘A Queen’s Speech’ To Be Performed

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Rory O'Mahony, Shona Murphy, David Hobbert, Mike O'Halloran and Geraldine Parker in rehearsals for 'A Queen's Speech' at Parker's Bar, Kilflynn.
The cast in character during rehearsals – Rory O’Mahony, Shona Murphy, David Hobbert, Mike O’Halloran and Geraldine Parker – for ‘A Queen’s Speech’ at Parker’s Bar, Kilflynn.

THE Union Jack will grace Siamsa Tire as the new play from the writer of the acclaimed ‘September 82’ will be performed later this month.

‘A Queen’s Speech’, by Mike O’Halloran, will be performed on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28 at 8pm.

It’s a blend of comedy and drama set in the summer of 2011 when Ireland was lifted from the gloom of recession by the promise of a State visit by Queen Elizabeth II.

The action takes places in a pub which also houses a small barbershop run by Jimmy, a vulnerable soul who really gets into the spirit of the occasion.

Jimmy’s excitement is shared by two kind women, who help him through life, indulging his idiosyncrasies and encouraging his dreams.

But his idyllic life is threatened by the business aspirations of the conniving pub owner Declan. Will an innocent triumph over a shady dealer?

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Mike O'Halloran, Rory O'Mahony and Geraldine Parker in rehearsals for 'A Queen's Speech' at Parker's Bar, Kilflynn.
Mike O’Halloran, Rory O’Mahony and Geraldine Parker in rehearsals for ‘A Queen’s Speech’ at Parker’s Bar, Kilflynn.

Mike O’Halloran has enjoyed success with his previous play, September ’82, a story about Kerry Football fans, which delighted audiences around the country.

Originally from Ballyduff, he has been involved in drama for many years appearing with groups including The Group Theatre Tralee, Pheonix Production’s, Zyber Theatre.

His interest in theatre takes him to London several times a year to view the latest drama in The National Theatre or other venues like Donmar Theatre.

Many people know O’Halloran from his other passion, sport. In addition to training teams around the county, O’Halloran is also a regular contributor to Radio Kerry sports programming and TraleeToday.ie.

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Shona Murphy, Geraldine Parker and Rory O'Mahony in rehearsals for 'A Queen's Speech' at Parker's Bar, Kilflynn.
Shona Murphy, Geraldine Parker and Rory O’Mahony in rehearsals for ‘A Queen’s Speech’ at Parker’s Bar, Kilflynn.

This new offering moves away from the sporting theme, but stays in the world of the small town pub. It’s an offbeat comedy with plenty of twists in the tale, which is sure to find many fans.

Directed by O’Halloran himself, assisted by Seamus McDonnell, the play features a community cast of veteran performers and new talent.

Geraldine Parker is a new addition to The Group Theatre Tralee but she is no stranger to the boards with Kilflynn Drama Group.

She has starred in Widows Paradise and Too Close To Home, she should be at home in her role as Mary.

Shona Murphy from Listry joins the group for the first timeShona is a member of The Killorglin Pantomime Group and Listry Folk Group, she is a keen rugby player and promises that this play will be the first of many.

Rory O’Mahony, a member of the Zyber Theatre, has vast experience on the stage both as an actor and director.

Rory has toured with Zyber with John Fraher’s Barn Dance and The Evidence I Shall Give.  He has also stage managed for The Group Theatre in the past.

David Hobbert is a long serving member of TGTT, he has played many roles over the years, his favourite role being Nostradamus in September 82. He loves the part of Jockey in this production.

For more information see The Group Theatre Tralee Facebook Page