Longford's Backstage Youth Theatre set to stage King Lear

Each year Backstage Theatre teams members of Backstage Youth Theatre up with a professional director.

This summer, the talented members of BYT have been working hard with Charlie McGuinness (director of Backstage Theatre Group's sell out run of The Snapper) on an exciting production of Shakespeare's King Lear.

Working with a professional director gives the young members of the theatre group a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business.
The Longford group enlisted the talent of the Carrigallen drama professional to guide the 2024 production. Charlie is an actor, writer and director of some renown.

The director says the Group has selected a very strong play: “Shakespeare is a playwright who presents the full gamut of human emotions in his work; laughter and sadness, badness and madness.”
Charlie has enjoyed working with BYT: “Rehearsals are going really well,” he told the Leader, “There is a great group effort. Everyone is working really hard, developing some really interesting characters.”
King Lear dramatises the story of an aged king of ancient Britain, whose plan to divide his kingdom among his three daughters ends tragically.

The public is invited to join BYT for a wildly energetic re-imagining of the classic Shakespearian play.
“This is perfect for anyone looking for an introduction to the works of Shakespeare and a lovely refresh to the palate for those Shakespearean connoisseurs,” Charlie said.
Don't miss this dramatic and comic retelling of the story of Lear as he tries to figure out who his favourite daughter is.

Tickets for Friday, September 6, at 8pm priced at €15/€12 are available at backstage.ie There will also be a special performance for schools on Thursday, September 5, at 8pm.
Group bookings can be made on 043 33 47888 (teachers go free).