STRONG CAST FOR DOLMEN

NOVEMBER 1998

A strong cast is assembled for Dolmen Theatre Group’s production of Portia Coughlan in the town hall.

The play is set in a midlands area of modern-day Ireland, and as a consequence, patrons are warned about some strong and explicit language.

Orla Hasson from Derry who is studying drama at Trinity College makes her Dolmen debut in the role of Portia.

Director Tony Coleman (Dublin) brings a vibrant and exciting dimension to a raw and raunchy play by exciting new Irish playwright Marina Carr.

The show has something for everyone – humour, suspense and drama, and a first-class collection of actors.

Cast: Portia Coughlan, Orla Hasson; Raphael Coughlan, Paul McGee; Sly Scully, Dermot ‘Doc’ Lavery; Marianne Scully, Christine Larkin; Maggie May Doorley, Rita Roslyn; Sanchil Doorley, Jack Montgomery; Blaize Scully, Nonie Belton; Stacie Doyle, Gabrielle Twomey; Damus Halion, Gerry O’Hara; Fintan Coughlan, Tony Markey; Gabriel Scully, Paul O’Neill. LOUTH is chosen to take part in a global study on older people following the launch in Dundalk of the ‘Age Friendly’ initiative.

It aims to make Louth a centre of excellence for improving the well-being and quality of life of older people and increasing their active participation in social, econom- ic and cultural life.

Louth county council chairman, Cllr Declan Breathnach describes increased life expectancy as ‘ one of the most dramatic and welcome’ social shifts during the 20th century.

‘ To put this in context, the average life expectancy for a man born in this country in 1926 was 57 years; by 2002, this figure was 75 years and it continues to increase in line with improved diet, exercise and healthcare.’

He adds this welcome increase in how long we live presents particular challenges for society.

‘We need changes in behaviour in how we deliver services. An issue older people regularly raise is the confusion they face when trying to access public services.

‘If we can cut through some of this red tape, we will have achieved a good deal,’ the chairman continues.

Scoil Mhuire na nGael pupils Elliot Gray, David Grimes, Thomas Curran, Naoise O’Hagan, Ciara Boyle, Dammy Sanusi, Mary Cassidy, Tara Duffy, Ema McCabe, Shane Dooner, Sinead McDonald, Lauren Mackle, Stephan Callan, Brian Cumiskey, Sean Maguire, Darren Reid, Lauren Stewart, Pauric McCrum, Jordan O’Donoghue and Pauraic Renaghan who are taking part in the “Operation Christmas Child” Christmas Shoebox Appeal.