Rathanna Drama Group brings laughter to local stage

THE curtain rises on comedy this week as Rathanna Drama Group presents their latest production, ‘Fortunes & Misfortunes’, a three-act comedy by playwright Jimmy Keary.

The amateur drama group’s newest offering promises audiences plenty of laughs during its eight-night run at Rathanna Hall. After opening performances on Saturday 24 May and Monday 26 May, the show continues on Thursday and Friday of this week, with additional performances on Sunday 2 June through Wednesday 5 June. All shows begin at 8pm.

Set in the fictional Rathanna Cosy Corner Café, the play follows the misadventures of long-suffering waitress Daisy Fortune, played by Paula Shannon. Daisy clings to hope that her recent pilgrimage to Lourdes, her respect for the timid Fr McCabe (John Cummings) and her faith in the Lotto will finally bring her some much-needed luck.

But Daisy’s dreams face constant challenges from her demanding boss Gloria Hart (Breda Scully), outspoken colleague Gina Berry (Eimear Byrne) and unwelcome visits from her work-shy son Nathan (Philip Kelly).

The comedy expands beyond the café to explore the troubles of local school principal Bill Delaney (John Brophy), who must contend with his social-climbing wife Oonagh (Liz Roche) and her new friendship with aspiring poet Hilary Swan (Geraldine O’Flynn). Adding to Bill’s complications is attention from newly single parent Wanda Hunt (Ann Kelly).

The arrival of renowned poet Aubrey Peacock (Pat Byrne) to lead a poetry workshop sets the stage for hilarious rivalries to emerge among the local writers group.

Director Pat Byrne has guided the cast through extensive rehearsals to bring Keary’s comedic vision to life. The production showcases the dedication of local amateur theatre in delivering entertainment for their community.

Tickets are available at the door for €10. Rathanna Hall is located at R95 HH68.