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I’m excited about this weekend. Myself and a buddy, John Fair, both share a love for all things 2 wheeled with engines. (Thats a complicated way of saying we like our motorbikes) John and I are taking to the road early Saturday morning with 12 others on a long trip to Cork. By long trip, I mean Dublin to Cork via Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford, Lismore and Cork. Hopefully the weather keeps up.

We plan on taking lots of photos, and um, maybe washing down a beer or 2. You can follow our goings on in real time on twitter as we will be tweeting updates and photos with the hashtag search #wobblybiker

Will report back on the day’s antics next week!

Last week, before its run in the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin, I had the privilege of attending a performance of Lane Productions latest, “The Shawshank Redemption”. Yes that one. Directed by Peter Sheridan and written by Owen O’Neill and Dave Johns, the run of performances at the Gaiety was the world stage premiere of the Stephen King book.

I went along with an heir of hesitance. Lane Productions in recent years have put on productions that dont appeal to me. I, Keano etc. Im not saying they are poor, Im saying they are just arent my thing.

However my opinion changed after last week’s performance. It was excellent. Many of the actors were hardened established actors, particularly the leads, Kevin Anderson and Reg E. Cathey. (Pictured above)

The set was well thought through and the scene changes handled gracefully. It really was a strong piece of work.

If I was to find a flaw, I would struggle, but I have one, albeit a minor one. The famous scene/image from the movie, of Andy emerging from the sewer and throwing his arms out ala the crucifix does not make it in.

I always felt that the image of Andy emerging Christ like, resurrected and crucified, brought full circle the sub theme of him being a Christ like character. The scene of him winning 12 beers for his jail friends being a crucial scene. Like I said, my flaw, is a minor one. (and for the nitpickers, the scene with Bogs (Joe Hanley) with his armed outstretched under the spotlight did not make up for it!)

All in all, an excellent piece and I look forward to similar productions from Lane.

Came across this trailer today, a bit of a departure for Scorcese? (Sorry, couldn’t resist!) Based on a book, Scorcese is leaving the mafia at home but taking Leo with him. Looking forward to this one.

This summer’s movie blockbusters feature alot of robots. And John Connor. But why watch 2 movies when you only need to watch one?

It has been an amazing Year One for the group. We set out with ambitious goals for the year and exceeded them. Between the success of the plays and also of our improv night, we have set the foundations to grow further.

But a summer break is upon us. What to do during the break?

Some of the group have set up a summer writing group to work on writing plays for our next production. Its open season in that regard really.
Others are going to hire a boat and go sailing together. Is it illegal to sail a boat under the influence of alcohol?

For me though, I have some ideas. I’m hoping to put on some more Improv nights and who knows, maybe tour Ireland or Europe with it? OK may it is just an excuse for a few beers but who’s complaining….?

The group is still open for business though. The forum will still run on boards.ie and the group members will be active. I’m sure a picnic or two will be had, weather permitting.

So a short while ago No Drama Theatre put on our first major production for a 3 night run. We sold out. Granted with a combined cast and crew of about 30 people, friends and family account for most but it still left many seats to be filled by those who have heard of us through boards.ie and the minimal advertising we did.

What a rush.

It went well. There was a great buzz in the venue, La Catedral during the week. With many people having never performed before, nerves were common but spirits were high. Between the directors, Barry O’Donovan and Brian Quinn, and the dedicated crew of volunteers, they put together a set and show that surpassed all our expectations.

That’s not to say there weren’t imperfections during the week, but it was nothing that couldn’t be handled or learnt from.

We had 2 pieces on. Our main piece, Night At The Invasion and supporting piece (which was 3 short plays), Tales From The Fairground

Some photos from the performance can be found here.

Can you spot yours truly in there?