THE West Cork One Act Drama Festival took place recently at St Mary’s Theatre, Rossmore showcasing an exceptional display of dramatic talent from nine groups travelling from across Ireland. 

Audiences were treated to a vibrant mix of powerful drama, poignant storytelling and dark comedy across three highly engaging nights.

Running from Friday November 14th to Sunday November 16th, the annual festival featured groups from Cork, Clare, Kerry, Kildare, Carlow, Wexford and beyond. 

Cork was strongly represented by Carrig Na Bhfear, Conna, Coachford and the local Kilmeen Drama Group, who all took to the stage with compelling and carefully crafted productions.

Festival adjudicator Belinda Wild praised the exceptionally high standard across all nine groups, noting the diversity of themes, quality of direction and strength of performances throughout the weekend.

On the final night of the West Cork One Act Drama Festival at St Mary’s Theatre, Rossmore were, back: Denis O’Donovan (Kilmeen Drama Group), Ann Marie McMahon (Coachford Drama Group), Deirdre Flemming (Carlow Little Theatre), Carmel Hogan (representing Beehive Theatre Productions), Larry McNally (Carlow Little Theatre), Tomas White (Kilmeen Drama Group) and Rita McInerney (Doonbeg Drama Group). Front: Andy Mahon (vice-chairperson), Catherine Deasy (festival secretary), Belinda Wild (adjudicator) and Eibhlin Keohane (chairperson).

The festival concluded on Sunday evening with the much-anticipated results ceremony. C

oachford Drama Group won the confined category for their play A Safe Passage by Irene Kelleher and Kilmeen Drama Group won the open category for their play From Eden by Stephen Jones. 

In addition to the main awards, several special adjudicator awards recognised outstanding individual and group achievements.

These included Best Director, Anne Marie McMahon of Coachford Drama Group in the confined section and Denis O’Donovan of Kilmeen Drama Group took best director in the open section.

Deirdre Fleming of Carlow Little Theatre Society was awarded the best ensemble award. While Kilmeen’s Tomas White was named Best Actor.

Top-ranking groups from the circuit will now progress to the All-Ireland One Act finals taking place in Tubbercurry, County Sligo in early December.

The West Cork One Act Drama Festival committee extends thanks to all sponsors, supporters and patrons for their continued commitment to the arts, as well as to the volunteers who help make the festival a success each year.