Gerald Griffin’s novel, “The Collegians,” has had a profound impact on the stage, inspiring both dramatic and operatic compositions that have reached the pinnacle of popularity. For years, “The Colleen Bawn” has proven to be a powerful draw for audiences, captivating countless theater enthusiasts with its timeless story and riveting performances. The play’s enduring appeal was further evidenced by the substantial attendance at the Shakespeare Theatre during a recent staging.
In this captivating adaptation, Mr. E.C. Matthews brings the much-loved character Myles-Na-Coppaleen to life with both flair and authenticity. As racy and roguish as ever, Matthews enthralls the audience both through his acting and his memorable songs, such as “Limerick is Beautiful.” Through his robust performance, Matthews effectively showcases the spirited nature of this iconic character while also contributing to the play’s magnetic, enduring appeal.
Elsewhere in the cast, Mr. Hugh Carmichael delivers a remarkably poignant portrayal of Hardress Cregan, a man caught in a tumultuous struggle between love and duty. Carmichael’s emotive performance penetrates deeply, resonating with the audience as they bear witness to the tortured conflict within his character’s heart.
Meanwhile, Mr. F. Albert excels in the role of Kyrle Daly, instilling a genuine sense of sincerity into the character and drawing the audience further into the narrative. Mr. Edwin Lever, cast as Danny Mann, demonstrates exceptional acting qualities, while Mr. Tom N’erney embodies a truly repellant Corrigan that keeps the audience both engaged and invested.
In the part of Father Tom, Mr. J.P. Carroll proves to be an effective and compelling presence on stage. Adding another layer of complexity to the production, Miss Emeline Matthews takes on the role of Eily O’Connor, delivering a performance that is at once delicately vulnerable and enchantingly charismatic. Her portrayal deeply resonates with the audience, contributing to both the charm and the enduring allure of the story.
Further supporting the cast, Miss Nelson Ramsay’s depiction of Mrs. Cregan, and Miss Annie Hylton’s performance as Anne Chute, stand as testaments to their immense talents, adding depth and dimension to the production.
Beyond the dynamic performances, the production benefits greatly from the quality of its scenic design. The carefully crafted sets and subtle yet effective lighting evoke the perfect atmosphere for the story, effortlessly transporting the audience to Limerick at the turn of the century and allowing them to become fully immersed in the world of “The Colleen Bawn.”
This latest staging of “The Colleen Bawn” at the Shakespeare Theatre speaks to the undying charm of the story and its ability to endure the test of time. The passion and skill exhibited by the performers, the captivating music, and the astute attention to detail in set design all combine to create a truly memorable experience for the audience.
In summary, this new production of “The Colleen Bawn” at the Shakespeare Theatre encapsulates the timelessness of Gerald Griffin’s novel while also showcasing the immense talent of the cast and crew. As the story continues to resonate with audiences and garner praise from critics, there can be little doubt that this enchanting play will continue to hold its place at the heart of the theatrical world for years to come.
Liverpool Daily Post – Tuesday 03 July 1900
