Ratoath writer's play staging in Draiocht

'Lorraine Bailey' is new play from Ratoath playwright Eileen Kavanagh. It is funny and poignant look at the family and romantic life of a recently separated Dublin housewife as she struggles to cope with the tribulations of teenage kids, a 'gastronintestinally' challenged mother, a suicidal cat and a job in the local supermarket. Into the mix comes Chitty Dunne, a chip shop man with big ambitions and an even bigger secret. With lots of laughs, romance and a big surprise, the show is the perfect mix of warmth and fun these recessionary times and the onset of autumn. This is the first play by Eileen Kavanagh and the drama group Four Forks productions. The play ran in the Venue, Ratoath last January to sellout crowds and a fantastic reception. It is transferring to the Draíocht in Blanchardstown from September 10th to 12th. But before that, Meath audiences can enjoy a special one night only performance in the comfort of the Trim Castle Hotel on Sunday 6th September at 8pm. Tickets are a special price of only €10 and can be got at the door or from the hotel reception. The play is directed by Gareth Mahony who has directed numerous pieces in Trim and Navan over the last few years including 'High School Musical', 'Annie', 'Back to the 80's' and various concerts and pantomimes. For information please contact Terry White at (087) 9118139. Starring in 'Lorraine Bailey' is Maria Flanagan (Lorraine Bailey), Phyllis Carty (mother Chrissie), John Fagan (Chitty), Mary Mahon (friend Kay), Oisin Flynn (son Robbie), Michelle O'Rourke (daughter Bethany), and Shane Murray-Corcoran (shop customer). "When the Venue Theatre opened in Ratoath, I was disappointed to discover that although there is a wonderful musical society in Ratoath, there was no associated drama group. Armed with great and constant encouragement from my dear friend and actor Mary Mahon I have now launched Four Forks Productions," says Eileen Kavanagh. She continued: "I can never remember a time when I didn't love acting, and all that it entails. As children my sisters and brother were very lucky to have the local cinema close by. "One day to our hysterical delight, we discovered that a small café was opening close to our home. So, whenever we scrounged money together my brother two sisters and I would take off to the café, march up to the counter and order one plate of chips with four forks. Even as I grew older the memories of those films, the plates of chips and most of all the four forks remained forever on my mind, and I vowed that someday the four forks would rise again, and here we are today with Four Forks Productions and our first show in Draíocht." Although Eileen's love is now writing, she has enjoyed some past acting roles, including a part in Coolmine Drama Circle's production of 'The Magdalene Whitewash' and the part of Jennie O'Donoghue in RTE's 'Fair City'. She has trained with John Cantwell in the Irish Film Actor's Studio as well as doing various workshops with the Abbey School of Acting. Eileen is currently studying arts, drama and theatre in NUI Maynooth. 'Lorraine Bailey' presented by Four Forks Productions stages in Draíocht Studio, Draíocht, Blanchardstown, from Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th September, at 8.15pm; Tickets €15 / €12 concessions, on 01-8852622 or book online on www.draiocht.ie.