Intimate production of award-winning ‘Eden’
Paul McManus as Billy during the Carlow Little Theatre's presentation of Eden in the George Bernard Shaw Theatre in Visual. Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
CARLOW Little Theatre Society’s recent production of Eugene O'Brien’s award-winning play received standing ovations during its limited two-night run on 12-13 March in the George Bernard Shaw Theatre at Visual.
The minimalist ‘black box’ production featured just two actors, Paul McManus and Aoife Reddy, who portrayed Billy and Breda, a married couple approaching their tenth wedding anniversary during what the play describes as “an extraordinary weekend” for their ordinary relationship.
“It’s a challenging piece for both actors,” said Paul Dunne, PR manager for Carlow Little Theatre Society. “They don’t interact throughout the play, which makes it particularly demanding.” The production was directed by Jo O’Donovan, who previously directed successful productions including in 2012 and in 2015.
Unlike the theatre company’s usual productions that aim for more traditional choices, represents the group’s foray into more experimental work. The play was chosen partly due to cast member Aoife Reddy’s long-standing admiration for the piece.
“The fact that it’s a two-hander and it’s done very much in a black-box style, so it’s very minimalist ... it’s quite challenging for actors because they’re both on stage but don’t interact throughout the play,” said Paul.
launched O'Brien’s career when it premiered at the Abbey Theatre in 2001, winning Best New Play at both the Theatre Awards and the Stewart Parker Awards that year. It was also adapted into a film in 2008.
The play tells the story of Billy and Breda at a crucial point in their marriage. As they approach their tenth wedding anniversary, Breda is determined to save their relationship, while Billy’s attention has wandered to another woman. Despite being performed to only half the theatre’s capacity due to the intimate nature of the production, Paul Dunne reported that the show filled its allocation of seats and received enthusiastic responses.
“It was roundly and very warmly received ... got standing ovations on both nights and was roundly praised and lauded,” he said.
While featured strong language and adult content (suitable for ages 16 and over), Paul emphasised the play’s relatability for many couples, with “very amusing funny parts interwoven” amid the more serious themes.
Carlow Little Theatre Society, a long-running non-profit amateur dramatics group, maintains a busy schedule throughout the year. Its next production, the farce , directed by Paddy Behan, is already in rehearsal and scheduled to take to the stage in May.
