Through the late summer and autumn this year, this part of Ireland has had some wonderful opportunities to appreciate the writing of Brian Friel. There have been a host of events marking the 10th anniversary of the death of this wonderful writer.
It has, of course, been focused on his beloved Ballybeg, otherwise known as Glenties but performances and readings have radiated out to Derry, Dunlewy and Sion Mills to name just a few places. Now the Allingham festival offers one more opportunity to applaud the great man.
“Remembering: Brian Friel” is an hour-long celebration of Friel’s writing focusing on the theme of “memory”. It opens with Friel’s words in his own voice through a “self-portrait” from BBC Northern Ireland, recorded in the 70s. This is followed by a specially adapted version of his short story Among the Ruins, depicting a young family’s Sunday outing with all the trials and joys that can bring.
Faith Healer is regarded by many as Friel’s true masterpiece and there will be excerpts from all four of the monologues which beautifully prove that shared experiences don’t always lead to shared memories.
A particular treat will be the achingly beautiful final scene of Brian Friel’s first great theatrical hit, Philadelphia Here I Come! and the event will close with wistful memories of Dancing at Lughnasa.
This very special anniversary event is curated by Michael McMullin, who, last year, memorably brought William Allingham, himself, back to Ballyshannon. He will be joined on stage by very familiar members of Ballyshannon Drama Society including Richard Hurst, Trish Keane, Ronan Drummond, Kevin Lilly, Troy Devaney, Regina Fahey and Mary Hoey.
Proceeds from the event will go to the Brian Friel Centre which has many exciting plans to commemorate the man in the aforesaid Glenties. Whether you are a lifelong fan of his work or don’t yet realise how much you love it, please come along and join us at 4:30 PM, November 9th in the Abbey Arts Centre, Ballyshannon.