NFLT Presents Ciara’s Coming Home

Apr 05, 2023

The Director of the North Frontenac Little Theatre’s forthcoming production of Ciara’s Coming Home, Adrian O’Connalr, said this week that he is astonished not only by the engagement of cast and crew in Clara’s Coming, but by public interest in the production as well.

The one act play was written by O’Connel’s wife, Arden based author and playwright, Glenys O’Connell, while she and Adrian were in Ireland in the early 2000s. It went on to tour Ireland where it won several awards. his wife but also by the widespread interest shown in the community towards the Irish themed play

“I was really surprised at just how many people in this area had distant relatives and ancestors in Ireland – some going back to settler times – and as well by the number of people who have visited Ireland in recent years,” he said

The drama, which turns the traditional Irish emigrant story on its head centres on a young, married New York based Irishwoman who abruptly decides to return to her roots in rural Ireland for reasons which become clear as the play unfolds.

Cast member, Greg Morris, from Arden, who plays the woman’s father, said he was drawn to the play immediately upon reading the script.

“I love books and plays about people and emotions and the playwright has captured all of that. From humour to pathos and every emotion in between.,” he said.

Verona based crew member, Leona Andrew said that she found the play interesting after visiting Ireland five years ago.

“It’s such a beautiful country and the play, with its story of the two sisters and how they connect with family and each other when the sister comes back from New York to Ireland is really interesting. I have a couple of Irish friends and I went to Ireland because I was so interested in the history. I am really enjoying taking part in this play.”

Ciara’s Coming Home runs in the NFLT’s new home, Oso Hall in Sharbot Lake, from April 27 to April 30. Tickets are available at C4 Convenience in Arden, and in Sharbot Lake at Pharmasave and the Cardinal Café, as well as at the Treasure Trunk on Road 38.