Margaret McCormack(on right) receiving the award – credit All Ireland Drama
Thurles Drama Group finished in third place at the All Ireland Drama Finals and cast member Matt Treacy won the award for best actor in a supporting role for his portrayal of Ivan Curry in The Seafarer. Dalkey Players, directed by Emma Jane Nulty, are the winners of the 2023 RTÉ All Ireland Drama Competition for their production of ‘By The Bog of Cats’ by Marina Carr. Ballyduff Drama Group, directed by Ger Canning, who presented ‘The Welkin’ were placed second and Thurles Drama Group, directed by Margaret McCormack, who performed ‘The Seafarer’ were placed third. The festival, hosted by Athlone is held under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland (ADCI) celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.
Thurles Drama group previously performed the play, by Conor McPherson 11 years ago, and the same cast had a hugely successful run to the national finals this year winning 7 of the 8 festivals they entered nationwide. The production also earned multiple awards in acting, directing, stage presentation, stage crew, most entertaining play, and audience favourite. The play has a cast of five – all male, alongside Matt Treacy the other members are Liam Ryan, Donal Ryan, Pat Loughnane and David McElgun. The crew of almost 20 have been working on the production for months at their premises – The Brid Ryan Drama Centre on Friar Street, Thurles.
Matt Treacy collecting his award for Best Supporting Actor – Image Credit All Ireland Drama Festival
