From the mosh pit to the Longford drama pit

Conceived after a conversation with her regretless boyfriend in 2020 over the risks of being in a mosh pit at a Slayer gig and its subsequent injuries, Rachel Ní Bhraonáin has crafted a witty and relatable performance which will be coming to Longford next month. 

It is a multidisciplinary show, fused with performance, dance and music. With five actors and two musicians, ‘Mosh’ explores the archetypes of those who enter the pit. Unconventional and non-linear, ‘Mosh’ has more of an abstract narrative, giving the audience a taste of modern theatre.

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Commenting on the creation’s aesthetic, Rachel said: “Multidisciplinary theatre has existed for a long time. It isn’t better or worse than classical theatre, or straightforward play or contemporary dance, but I do think there’s a market for it. It does appeal to certain people. For someone like me, having lots of things to draw you in is really exciting. There’s a market for it and embrace it. As a jack of all trades, I embrace that aspect of myself. I find in Ireland, there’s a thriving scene for multidisciplinary theatre, especially a festival like Dublin Dance Festival or Fringe Festival.”

To create ‘Mosh’, Rachel spent approximately one year on reading, imagining, writing, researching and interviewing, which was spread over three years due to the Covid pandemic. However, despite such obstacles, her vision has been fulfilled, selling out at the Dublin Fringe Festival. It has proven to be a great success, and its tour has Dublin, Galway, Cork, Longford, Clare, Donegal and Waterford. 

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Ireland has proven to have supplied massive support for ‘Mosh’ to reach its success. 

“I was generously supported financially, from local authorities, funding bodies and local venues and arts council. I got a project award at Dublin Fringe Festival and a touring award.”

Rachel’s background in having a BA in Dance in London, specialising in contemporary and multidisciplinary, can be seen in her creations. Describing herself as having a “broad background” with the additional experience in circus performance, singing and acting, the mix in ‘Mosh’ is loyal to her own skillset. 

Explaining why Longford people should come and watch, Rachel said: “It’s a really high, exciting show, not what you expect from a dance show as it’s also theatre. You’ll also recognise yourself or your friends on the stage. This is about normal people who want to do a risky thing. Even if you’ve done something a little wild in your life, you may want to watch. For anyone who loves live music, this is the show for you. It’s like a gig, music show, to have a headbanging time. It’s a really fun night out.”

Tickets can be bought from https://backstage.ie/events/mosh/