Gabriel’s complex love life

MUCH laughter and hilarity are promised at the Glórach Theatre, Abbeyfeale next week, with side-splitting comedy, The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley.

Written by prolific Westmeath playwright, Jimmy Keary, it is set to provide a welcome antidote to the early winter gloom.

The play revolves around the eponymous title character, a bachelor farmer in his forties who has little luck in his love life. He lives with Aggie, his strong-willed mother who is anxious to be a grandmother. Gabriel strives to improve his fortunes by joining a drama group where he hopes to attract the attention of fellow thespian Hazel. In doing so however, he may be blind to the attentions of Chrissie.

Meanwhile, there are many characters willing to offer advice to Gabriel, including his earthy neighbour with hare-brained schemes, Liam Gavigan, and his acid-tongued Aunt Lucy.

Director and lead actor Donal Woulfe is joined by a stellar cast that includes Mary Murphy, Theresa O’Halloran, Domhnall de Barra, Joan O’Connell, and Annette Mann. There is a strong Kerry flavour to the cast as well, with legendary singer and raconteur Frances Kennedy (of Ryanair song fame) playing the role of Hazel, and from Knocknagoshel, Chris Collins, who has acted with both the Glórach and also the Spike Players.

The show kicks off on Tuesday, November 21, with further shows on November 23, 24, 25, 26, 28 and 30 (8pm each date).

Donal Woulfe (Gabriel Foley) torn between Frances Kennedy (Hazel) and Joan O’Connell (Chrissie).