THE BOYS IN THE PHOTOGRAPH

This production of Webber and Elton’s re-write of “The Beautiful Game” was an all Ireland premiere. The cast relished the Belfast accents and colloquialisms and Ian’s 9-piece orchestra captured the essence of the piece. The stage team were costumed as British soldiers and acted through scene changes – efficient and authentic. The Set had a basic graffitied back wall with a rotating trucks and evident attention to detail in Props. Sound/Lighting were good with old style photos projected onto procenium screens

The “lads” who made up the football teams exuded typical energy in play/dance and in dialogue. Brian Trainor ( “Father”) added gravitas as the only adult, and a lovely sprinkling of humour. Although the show contains much thought-provoking material, many scenes are hilarious. Victoria Sanders had a terrific twinkle in her eye as Christine and romance with protestant boy Del (Gavin Murphy) was convincing. Bernadette (Bronagh Walsh)’s ill-fated romance with Eoin McAndrew as Gregory (‘Ginger’) - in shy teenage fashion, made his murder shocking. The funeral was very well performed. Dave McCrossan (Thomas – football lad turned IRA hard man) was an enigmatic character and Conal Corr (Daniel) a real ‘chancer’! When he was crippled by knee-capping it was distressing. Connor Carson and Hannah Conlon, in principal roles as John and girlfriend Mary worked very successfully together in light and serious moments.

Ian and Rebecca directed and choreographed a tight gritty show, bringing all ages into crowd scenes to great effect, and allowing principals to display acting skills beyond their years.

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