Don Wycherley returning to Longford for moving one-man performance

You probably know of Don Wycherley. From Fr Cyril McDuff in 'Father Ted' to his roles in other iconic Irish shows like 'Ballykissangel', he is arriving into Longford on Saturday, November 15 at 8pm to perform in “The Life and Times of Paddy Armstrong”. It is based on the 2017 biography 'Life After Life'.

In advance to his arrival into Longford, he came to chat to the 'Longford Leader' about what to expect from this moving but enjoyable piece. Although it is a story of injustice in Paddy's life after being accused of the Guildford bombings, it is not all heavy and dramatic, but fun for all types of demographics.

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“It does what it says on the tin. Mary-Elaine Tynan, who was the ghostwriter, and a friend of Paddy’s wife, took it off to help. She did a first draft, I gave notes, like to leave that bit out. We spent the guts of the year taking the book apart, adding bits, rewriting stuff.”

Previously performing in Longford Backstage Theatre in performances like 'Conversations on a Homecoming' (by Tom Murphy) with NoMad, Don went on to compliment the theatre's promotional attention, as well as their care for the theatre, productions and travelling.

“It’s an amazing piece, but not a dark piece; it’s uplifting and joyous in places. People can come out as it’s not a terrible story.”

For young Longford people who hope to become actors, Don pointed out how times have changed from getting an agent. Social media is bringing the opportunities through follower counts and engagement, as people are making opportunities for themselves.

“Everything is possible, but you’ve got to do something if you want to act. Show people your hand. No one’s going to come to you.”

Don has called Longford a “educated and theatrical audience.” He h0pes that, after the show, locals will want to approach him to chat about the piece to give their insights.

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Having high praise for Longford's love for theatre, Don hopes that younger people who come will learn about the story, and older people who already know it will enjoy themselves.

A testament to survival, The Life and Times of Paddy Armstrong reminds us of the privilege of freedom, the healing power of family and love, and the quiet grace found in ordinary life after extraordinary suffering.