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Friday’s night performance at Newry Drama Festival was presented by Bunclody/ Kilmyshall Drama Group. “The Night Alive” by the much lauded Conor McPherson was premiered in London in 2013.
Adjudicator Ailbhe Garvey- Hughes praised the presentation of the set,” the squalor - the organised chaos worked very well affording plenty of space for the cast.” A few pieces on set needed minor adjustments but everything was very well chosen. She congratulated the director on achieving a complete blackout at the beginning of the play. She said the costumes were appropriate and chosen with great care and she offered great credit to lighting, sound and stage management team.
The production got off to a very strong start although she commented that in the first scene the transition music needed to be a little louder. The director demonstrated much skill moving the actors around the stage and created lovely groupings. The scenes were visually very engaging however, the play demands much technical expertise which didn’t always go smoothly.
With regards to the acting Mrs Garvey -Hughes praised the director who she said, “assembled a very strong ensemble with great commitment.”
Maurice played by Billy Canning gave a very measured, subtle performance with great variety of pace. He was the heart of the play and gave a beautiful portrayal of his character. Doc played by Padraig Darcy showed lovely vulnerability and gave a well- considered performance very true to character. Garret Murphy’s portrayal of Kenneth was credible as he played it without empathy or remorse. Margaret Farrell‘s Aimee also gave a powerful performance and the portrayal of her pain was razor sharp. While Tommy played by Fergal Kelly caught the vulnerability of his character well, the adjudicator felt his Wexford accent “didn’t quite sit with the Dubs.” She felt the play needed the consistency of the Dublin accent.
Mrs Garvey - Hughes concluded by saying the play offered so many wonderful moments. The director Kieran Tyrrell marshalled the talents of his group so well. She thanked the company for entertaining herself and the audience to their production of “The Night Alive.”
