Lyceum Theatre Oldham follows up November’s sell-out success with modern Irish classicThe Beauty Queen of Leenane
The play by Martin McDonagh was his first , written in 1995. It quickly came to epitomise the struggle between modern and traditional Ireland, through the sharp tongues and vicious story of mother and daughter, Mag and Maureen. Laughing at them and changing allegiance throughout, it’s not until the final shocking scene that audiences realise the truth about their lives.
The play takes the audience on a roller-coaster ride, yearning for Maureen to escape her bitter mother. The comedy of the Irish brogue hides a turmoil of horror and discomfort. It’s compelling viewing. Even the set is a challenge for an amateur theatre company as it demands working taps and realistic-looking electrics and fire.
Award-winning Director Ian Orry is making his directorial debut for Lyceum Theatre Oldham, having won best production awards for other local theatre companies. The cast includes mother and daughter Maggie and Ruth Blaszczok, playing Mag and Maureen, Stephen Nathaniel playing Pato and Ed Taylor as Ray.
Lyceum Theatre Oldham closed in Summer 2015 for a major refurbishment of its auditorium. Audiences are now benefitting from new seating and a more comfortable experience in its basement home in the centre of Oldham.
Listings Information
Lyceum Theatre Oldham presents
THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE by Martin McDonagh
5 – 13 February 7.30pm (no performance Sunday 7 February)
All Tickets: £8.00
