In the serene enclave of Mungret, County Limerick, amidst the hushed whispers of ancient spirits and the echoes of Gaelic heritage, a remarkable display of cultural resurgence unfolded. The Apostolic School, under the guidance of Reverend Father Cahill, S.J., unfurled the tapestry of Irish history and tradition through a dramatic performance that captivated hearts and minds alike.
The setting, a dramatic adaptation of Gerald Griffin’s “The Invasion,” transported spectators to the seventh century, immersing them in the essence of Irishness deeply rooted in County Limerick’s soil. The play, meticulously crafted and passionately enacted, resonated with authenticity, drawing upon the rich tapestry of local history and the spiritual ambiance of Mungret Monastery.
Attendees, numbering in the hundreds, were treated to an evening of enchantment, far removed from the superficial allure of modern entertainment. Against the backdrop of meticulously crafted costumes and scenery, the students of the Apostolic School breathed life into characters from Ireland’s past, weaving a narrative that stirred the soul and kindled a sense of pride in one’s heritage.
A highlight of the performance was the portrayal of the monastic life within Mungret Monastery, where the haunting strains of the “Perpetual Praise” echoed through the halls, evoking a sense of reverence for the enduring spirit of devotion that once graced these sacred grounds.
Reflecting on the experience, attendees expressed profound admiration for the dedication and talent displayed by the performers, as well as the vision of Father Cahill in nurturing a Gaelic spirit within the Apostolic School. Indeed, the production served as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the wealth of material that lies within Ireland’s own history, waiting to be brought to life on stage.
Amidst the accolades, however, there lingered a sense of lament for the fading glory of villages like Askeaton and Kilfinane, once thriving hubs of Irish culture now relegated to the shadows of neglect and decay. Yet, in the resplendent glow of the theatrical spectacle at Mungret, there emerged a glimmer of hope for a cultural renaissance that transcends the confines of time and adversity.
As the curtain fell on this momentous occasion, the reverberations of applause echoed through the halls of Mungret Monastery, carrying with them the promise of a future where the spirit of Ireland’s past continues to thrive.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 12 February 1916
