In September 2009 we started to look for members at the school gates, in the shop, at the May Byrne Trust House and amongst friends and neighbours. We wanted to have some fun. We wanted to play. We wanted to build self esteem and entertain our village. We like to think we've succeeded on all counts. Our first two productions, Fantastic Father Fitz and Quigley's Quarry, were written by Thomas Clare. Both plays were an enormous success and brought full and happy houses here to St Mogue's. We have fond memories of these early days and often marvel at how long ago it seems. It is in fact, only eleven plays ago. I expect there are some of you reading this that have in fact, seen many of our umpteen plays. So, can you name them? In 2012 we decided to spread our wings and compete and tour a one act play called The Trial by Anthony Booth. We compete in the Confined section. We had considerable success and finished eighth on the national leader board. Last year, in 2013, we were thrilled to get third place at the All Ireland Finals in Roscommon with a play called The Donohue Sisters by Geraldine Aron. In 2014 our play 'Stay Carl Stay' finished in second place at the All Ireland. So each year has seen progress. We won the confined section at the All Ireland a few years back and came second in the Open section at the last All Ireland held in Rossmore. Hard work pays off! Our group is not all about putting on the play; we organise several group outings each year to both professional and amateur productions, we host workshops and encourage our members to take courses. We are very proud of our small group, our talent, our hard work, our achievements and our audiences. We always welcome new members! Membership is a very affordable €25 per year. Many many members never tread the boards but just like the camaraderie and fun that is to be had when a bunch of entertaining and creative souls get together. Laughs are guaranteed!
