Pictures: Kilkenny's Barn Owl Players announce their most ambitious production to date

Barn Owl Players have announced their most ambitious production yet, staging The McGowan Trilogy, a thrilling series of connected plays by renowned playwright Seamus Scanlon.

Directed by Philip Hardy, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for local theatregoers. This marks the group’s first foray into Thomastown, and they are excited to bring their trademark energy and dynamism to a new stage.
The production will run for three nights, beginning May 15, and tickets are now available through Eventbrite.

Director Philip Hardy, whose 30-plus years leading Barnstorm Theatre Company have shaped the landscape of local and national theatre, steps back into the director's chair for this remarkable trilogy. Hardy, known for his visionary approach to storytelling, is excited to return to the world of theatre with such a dynamic project.

“The McGowan Trilogy is a powerful and poignant journey through complex characters and themes,” said Hardy. “I am looking forward to working with such a talented group of actors on a production that will push boundaries and create a unique theatrical experience.”

The trilogy explores deep themes of family, conflict, and attempts at redemption, with characters caught in the turmoil of one character, Victor. The group is thrilled to have Hardy take the director’s reins and help navigate Scanlon’s thrilling script.
Appearing in this bold production are some of the most talented local actors, each bringing their own unique flair and depth to their roles.

John Prendergast brings his captivating presence to the role of Victor, a character marked by internal conflict and unrelenting drive. Prendergast’s powerful performances have earned him a dedicated following in the local theatre scene.
Jim Carroll and Mags Whitely, stalwarts of the Kilkenny theatre scene, bring their dynamic stage presence, ensuring audiences are in for a treat.

Rosey Hayes and Eoin Nangle Ryan capture the complexity of their characters and joined by Ben Nunan; they will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
“We are incredibly proud to be working with such a talented and passionate group of actors,” said Mags Whitely, chair of the Barn Owl Players.

“Each actor brings something special to the stage, and together, they will create a performance that is powerful, moving, and unforgettable.”

This production marks an exciting milestone for the Barn Owl Players as they take to the stage for the first time in Thomastown. Bursting with enthusiasm, the group is eager to connect with the community and warmly invites locals and residents from both the county and the city to join them at the concert hall for this captivating show.

“We are excited to bring our passion for theatre to Thomastown and share this exciting new chapter of Barn Owl Players with a fresh audience,” said the group’s director. “We’ve always believed that theatre has the power to unite and inspire, and we can’t wait to share The McGowan Trilogy with the people of Thomastown and the wider community of the South-East.

TICKETS
The McGowan Trilogy will be performed for three nights, from May 15 to May 17.
Tickets are now available via Eventbrite, and audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. http://tiny.cc/BOP.