A searing family drama - John B Keane classic comes to Thomastown

With opening night fast approaching, Barn Owl Productions’ staging of Big Maggie by John B Keane is almost upon us and will be performed at Thomastown Concert Hall from 19–21 February.

One of Keane’s most powerful, provocative, and enduring plays, Big Maggie returns to the local stage charged with fresh energy and a reinvigorated artistic vision. As anticipation builds, this landmark Irish drama promises to be an unmissable theatrical event, offering audiences a gripping blend of raw family conflict, dark humour, and unforgettable characters.

Few plays in the Irish canon have achieved the lasting popularity and emotional impact of Big Maggie.

Since its first staging, the play has remained a firm favourite with audiences, revered for its uncompromising portrayal of family conflict, inheritance, loyalty, and betrayal.

At its heart is a searing family drama, rich with tension and emotional truth, yet unmistakably laced with John B. Keane’s dark, biting humour. It is this balance, the laughter caught in the throat, the cruelty softened by wit, that has secured Big Maggie’s place as one of the most compelling works in Irish drama.

This production marks a significant moment for Barn Owl Productions. Following the hugely successful early 2025 production of The McGowan Trilogy by Seamus Scanlon that became the launchpad for Barn Owl Productions, marking its bold evolution from a passionate theatre group into a dynamic creative force.

Big Maggie is the first undertaking under the new Barn Owl Productions banner, and the company is setting its stall out early with an ambitious, emotionally charged choice of play.

Directing Big Maggie is Philip Hardy, who joins Barn Owl Productions following Barnstorm Theatre Company’s highly successful run of Sive by John B. Keane at the Watergate Theatre. Hardy brings a sharp understanding of Keane’s work, along with a deep respect for its rhythms, tensions, and moral complexity. His approach promises a production that honours the raw power of the text while delivering a pace and clarity that will resonate strongly with modern audiences.

At the centre of the production is local acting icon Mags Whitely, taking on the formidable titular role of Big Maggie. A character renowned for her strength, cruelty, vulnerability and relentless will, Big Maggie remains one of the great roles in Irish theatre.

Whitely’s casting brings both authority and emotional depth to the role, ensuring a portrayal that will be both commanding and deeply human.

Speaking about the role, Whitely said: “Big Maggie is a woman who refuses to disappear quietly. She’s flawed, frightening, funny, and heartbreakingly lonely all at once. To step into her shoes is both a privilege and a challenge, she demands everything from you. I’m honoured to bring her story to life for a local audience who understands the world she comes from.”

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Supporting Whitely is a strong and dynamic ensemble cast. Teddy Heelin is played by Eoin Nangle-Ryan, a long-time player returning once again to the Thomastown stage, bringing experience and depth to one of the play’s most memorable characters.

Gert will be played by Kathy Hession, a well-known and respected actor who is new to Barn Owl Productions and brings formidable experience to the ensemble. Katie is portrayed by Megan Kelly, fresh from her acclaimed lead performance in Sive, further strengthening the company’s connection to John B. Keane’s work.

Maurice, Maggie’s conflicted son, is played by Barry Rafter, a relative newcomer to acting, and the company is delighted to welcome him on board for this production. Mick is played by Ben Nunan, returning to the Thomastown stage and appearing with the company for the second time.

Among the strong supporting roles, Mr Byrne will be played by John Whitely, a local stalwart whose presence on stage is always warmly received. Mrs Madden will be played by Nicola Ryan, a popular local actor and long-time player, while Mary Madden is brought to life by Kelly Croke, appearing with the group for the first time. The roles of the Old Woman and Old Man are played by two familiar figures to local audiences: Caitrona Bambrick and Jim Carroll, two cherished stalwarts.

With its blend of powerful family drama, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Big Maggie promises to be a theatrical event not to be missed. Barn Owl Productions invites audiences to experience this iconic play anew — bold, uncompromising, and deeply rooted in the Irish theatrical tradition.

Big Maggie runs from February 19 to 21 at Thomastown Concert Hall, tickets cost : €18 + booking fee and are available from Eventbrite https://tinyurl.com/BarnOwlMaggie.

Early booking is strongly advised for what promises to be one of the standout local theatre events of the year.