www.communityvoice.ie - Art news from Dublin 15

Going to extremes

“Bradán Players was established with the purpose of producing challenging plays for both participants and audience. In our short existence I like to think that we have achieved that aim.”

So says Bradán artistic director Tom Byrne and certainly their recent productions at Draíocht – “Small Box Psychosis,” “Geography of a Horse Dreamer” and last year’s adaptation of “Come back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean” – could not be categorised under ‘light and fluffy.’ If possible, they have pushed the boat out even further this time as they bring William Mastrosimone’s “Extremities” to Dublin 15 for the first time at the end of the month.

The play is about a young woman named Marjorie who is attacked in her home by a would-be rapist. She manages to turn the tables on him, tying him up in her fireplace. Her roommates come home to discover Raul tied with cords, belts and other household items.

Terry and Patricia, the roommates, portray different points of view about rape within society. Terry, a rape victim when she was a teenager, believes that Raul will not be convicted since a rape did not occur and there is no proof. Patricia believes in the judicial system and insists on calling the cops.

The question posed is - how far should one go in the pursuit of justice?

First performed on Broadway in 1992, the play has also had a career on the silver screen, with Farrah Fawcett in one of the leading roles. This production stars Jenny Ni Lucais, Gillian Purcell, Claire Tighe and John Duggan, who also directs.

Bradán Players – the name is derived from the Irish name for Leixlip (Leim an Bradán) which translates as “Salmon Leap” are fast gaining a reputation both in Ireland and abroad for tackling productions that are slightly off the beaten track. “Geography of a Horse Dreamer” told the tale of a man who dreamt of winning race horses and the production deservedly scooped the runners-up prize in the 2006 All Ireland one act drama festival. In their first full year (2005) they even had two plays shortlisted in that competition, with “Small Box Psychosis” by Barry McKinley eventually landing the ultimate prize.

“As artistic director I like to select plays that present a challenge to actors, director and most importantly to our audience,” says Tom Byrne. “I feel you need to push out the boat, extend yourself artistically and get away from comfort zones.

“At the same time, you have to remember that you are there to entertain people.”

Bradán Players “Extremities” plays Draíocht Studio on Friday 29th February and Saturday 1st March at 8.15pm.

Tickets are €15 / €12.

Community Voice, Media House, Church Avenue, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15
Phone +353 1 822 1432 - Fax +353 1 640 4444
info@communityvoice.ie