Deirdr Kinahan: Shorts: Five Plays

Deirdre Kinahan is an award-winning playwright and member of Aosdána, Ireland's elected organization of outstanding artists. This volume brings together five of her short plays, each shining a light into a forgotten corner of our humanity, giving voice to irrepressible characters that the world has done its best to overlook.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

The short play, a cherished tradition in Irish theater, is a remarkable work of art that transports us to a different world with a burst of brilliance. Its brevity only serves to enhance its impact, casting a bright light on the human experience.

Deirdre Kinahan, an acclaimed playwright and member of Aosdána, Ireland's esteemed organization of outstanding artists, has compiled a collection of five of her short plays in this volume. Each play delves into a forgotten corner of our humanity, giving voice to characters that the world has often overlooked.

In "Bé Carna" (Tall Tales, 1999), Kinahan explores the lives of five women who work as prostitutes on the streets of Dublin. Drawing inspiration from real-life stories, the play is a dark yet humane tale that resonates with warmth, humor, and a deep understanding of human nature.

In "Hue & Cry" (Tall Tales/Bewley's Café Theatre, 2007), Kinahan reunites two Dublin cousins for a family funeral, where they confront their past and present in a highly charged and emotionally charged encounter. The play explores themes of disillusionment, denial, and dark laughter, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition.

"Bogboy" (Tall Tales/Solstice Arts Centre, 2010) is a radio play originally written for RTÉ. It tells the story of two lost souls, a young heroin addict and a reclusive middle-aged farmer, who find solace and friendship in the bogs of Meath. However, a terrible secret threatens to tear them apart.

"Wild Notes" (Solas Nua, Washington D.C., 2018) is a thought-provoking play that explores the impact of colonialism through a meeting between Frederick Douglass, the escaped slave and abolitionist who visited Ireland in the 1840s, and a young Irishwoman who dreams of emigrating to the country he is running from. The play offers a powerful exploration of history and identity.

"An Old Song, Half Forgotten" (Abbey Theatre, 2023) is a tender and poignant portrayal of an older actor living with Alzheimer's disease. The play follows the character as he rebuilds his life and his soul, navigating the challenges of memory loss and fading. Through his journey, the play offers a profound reflection on the human condition and the importance of cherishing our memories.

Kinahan's plays are known for their challenging and thought-provoking nature, and she has received numerous awards for her contributions to Irish theater. "An Old Song, Half Forgotten" recently won the inaugural Pratchett Prize for challenging preconceptions and exploring the human experience.

In conclusion, Deirdre Kinahan's collection of short plays is a testament to her talent as a playwright and her deep understanding of the human condition. These plays shine a light into forgotten corners of our humanity, giving voice to characters that the world has often overlooked. Through her powerful storytelling and insightful exploration of themes, Kinahan invites us to reflect on the world around us and the people we encounter.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848429321