Write a commentThe Irish Drama group from St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook have been celebrating the news that their production of ‘Áras na Rún’ which was performed as part of Newry Irish Drama Festival, has been nominated for performance at the Ulster Festival in Armagh on 26 March.
Year 10 actor Shane McGirr was also named Best Actor at the festival, with his co-star Year 12 student, Neil Byrne, receiving a Highly Commended Award. Adjudicator, Lynette Fay from BBC, praised the high production standards for the St Paul’s play, and remarked on the flawless acting abilities of the young cast. She was very impressed by how well the group interacted on stage and used their natural comedic abilities for humorous effect. ‘Áras na Rún’ is an adaptation of Ré Ó Láighléis’ play, as is the story of a class visit to a local museum. Shane McGirr plays the role of Pádraig Ó Dúgáin, a sleepy student who is surprised when the statues in the museum suddenly come to life.
Neil Byrne plays local boxing hero Barra Mag Uiginn, with Anita Dennison impressing as the stern school teacher. The Irish Drama group which is mentored by Mr S Quinn, Miss C McCoy of the Irish Department, and Head of Drama Ms P Lynch, have been rehearsing and working hard for months. They look forward to the Ulster Drama Festival in Armagh at the end of March.
