Carndonagh man makes theatrical debut with original Inishowen drama

A Carndonagh man is preparing to make his theatrical debut as a playwright and director with an original stage production celebrating the people, places and events of times gone by.

Tony Doherty has written ‘The Pride of Inishdara’, a nostalgic and heartwarming three-act drama which will receive its premiere at Colgan Hall, Carndonagh, at the end of this month.

Set in the fictional town of Inishdara – which could really be Inishowen in disguise! – the play takes audiences on a journey through three different eras, with the action unfolding in a pub during the 1880s, 1930s and 1980s.

For Tony, the production represents a new creative venture. A familiar face as a euphonium player with Carn Brass Band, he is now demonstrating his talents in a very different setting with his first-ever play, which he has both written and directed.

Tony has woven familiar local place names and references throughout the production, ensuring that audiences from across the peninsula will recognise something of their own communities.

The story revolves around two feisty women who occupy the pub's snug, two men who regularly frequent the lounge and, of course, the barman.

Through their conversations, they discuss the everyday issues of their respective eras, recall significant events in Inishdara and share plenty of banter, laughter and occasional tears.

Local politics, personal struggles, enduring friendships and the changing face of community life all feature in a production that looks back fondly at years gone by.

At its heart, The Pride of Inishdara is about the places we call home – whether a townland, village, town or city where we grew up, spent our holidays or have treasured memories, and perhaps somewhere we would love to return to.

While firmly rooted in Inishowen culture and tradition, its themes of belonging, resilience and remembrance will resonate with audiences much further afield.

A strong local cast has been assembled, with rehearsals now in full swing. It includes Karen Kelly McLaughlin, Geraldine Mooney, Ambrose McCreanor, Sean Bradley, Paddy McLaughlin Mooney, Patricia McLaughlin, Conal McGrenra and Carmel McGrenra.

Also making their stage debuts are Rosa McLaughlin, Bronagh Doherty Kinnego and Sabyna O’Boyle.

The production team comprises Pat Doherty, Helen Doherty, Michael Hennigan, Sena McCreanor and Hilda O’Connor, while Margaret O’Kane and Marie Monagle will manage front of house.

The play runs for just three nights at Colgan Hall on Thursday, November 26, Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28, with performances starting at 8pm and doors opening at 7.30pm.

Tickes cost €10, with a €5 concession rate, and are available at the door. Early arrival is advised to avoid disappointment.