he Tara Players of Ottawa, a community theatre group dedicated to production of Irish theatre, are celebrating their 25th season in style. The season begins September 30 with an "Irish Evening" of traditional music, dance and a one-act play by W.B. Yeats, The Land of Heart's Desire.
The very first play staged by Tara was Sean O'Casey's Juno and the Paycock back in March 1976. It is appropriate that the first full-length production of this anniversary season is another O'Casey classic: The Plough and the Stars. This show runs October 25-28 and November 2-4.
The two subsequent plays of the season are Brian Friel's Philadelphia Here I Come running February 21-24 and March 1-3, and The Poker Session by Hugh Leonard. The latter production opens on April 25th.
This non-for-profit company stages classic, modern and contemporary dramas and comedies from and about Ireland and by writers of Irish heritage.
As well as its regular performances at St. Patrick's Hall, the company has performed extensively and been honored at provincial, national and international festivals.
President, Padraig Finlay, Old Ottawa South resident of Riverdale Ave, says Tara Players welcome the participation of all residents of the Ottawa-Hull region in all aspects of the work of the company and the staging of its plays.
You can get more information about the Tara Players and their productions by calling 746-1410 or by visiting the group's web site www.ncf.ca/taraplayers.