Sell out run for much anticipated Longford production of 'Cardboard Coffin'

Drama in south Longford is in a very good state as a local production has already sold out a three nights Bog Lane Theatre in advance of the show.

'Cardboard Coffin' is a deep, dark and thought-provoking play telling the story of Johnny, a man down on his luck. Johnny will be expertly portrayed by actor Jimmy Connell (aka Jimmy Jests).

Writer of 'Cardboard Coffin', Valerie Masters, is looking forward to this, the second production of her play.
Best known for her poetry, Valerie branched out into drama to create this play, which has a strong homelessness theme, back in 2018.

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“It started off life as a poem,” Valerie told the Leader, “I thought it could be expanded into a bigger piece, so I put it to one side. As I worked with it this guy, Johnny, came to life.”

In Valerie's play Johnny ends up alone on the streets, reflecting on a life of love and loss and bemoaning the outcome of his existence.

The move from poetry to drama was not one Valerie took lightly: “It was a massive leap. I would never in a million years have considered writing a play. The poem asked 'Can I borrow your skin, because I don't fit in mine any more', I thought that was someone saying something, and from that Johnny was born.”

The play is extremely powerful and forces the audience to confront the issue of homelessness head on.

Valerie said given the themes of the play she was surprised when Jimmy Connell, an actor more renowned for his comedic talent, approached her to stage the work.

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“Pauline Flood first mentioned that Jimmy was interested in putting on the play. He's an absolute professional, and such a gentleman. He has been so good to me. When I first met him I told him I was surprised he wanted to do such a serious piece. The minute he stepped on the stage he became Johnny. He is the ultimate professional.”

The playwright says there has been great support for the show right across the community in Ballymahon: “Local business have come out in force. Mary Nally from Ronny Nally's Bar has been organising hampers and gifts for door prizes. People are still offering prizes, I am so touched. The show is a complete sell out for all three nights and we even have a waiting list.”

Valerie thanked everyone who has helped bring this run of 'Cardboard Coffin' to the stage: “We have had so many people help out, it would be impossible to name everyone, but I have to say a special thanks to our sound and lights man, Peter Costello, has done an absolutely wonderful job on the show.”

'Cardboard Coffin' will be staged in the Bog Lane Theatre this week on Thursday 3, Friday 4 and Saturday 5 of October.