A peep into Ballyer lives during the ’70s and ’80s
By Maurice Garvey
TWO films encapsulating life in Ballyfermot during the 1970s and 1980s were screened to rapturous applause over the weekend.
Productions of Roots and Wings and Down the Corner took place in the Ballyfermot Community Civic Centre on Sunday.
Mary Farrell, a director of the Ballyfermot Community Arts Workshop from 1974-78, was on the organising committee for the event. “The response from people surpassed my expectations,” said Mary.
“Cast members accompanied by their family and friends attended in great numbers. Sunnima O’Flynn of the Irish Film Institute provided the films as part of the IFI ‘Local Films for Local People’ programme.
Joe Comerford, the director and Art O’Briain, the producer of Down the Corner were in attendance and participated in discussions after the film. The film was based on a book written by Ballyfermot man Noel McFarlane.
Mary continued: “The occasion allowed a previous generation to hand on a piece of Ballyfermot history to the next generation. A large number of family members attended.
“The contributions from Monica and Hughie Murray ably articulated what is captured in the film.”
Roddy Day, a popular former teacher in Mary Queen of Angels, was immortalised at the event, along with former actor and singer Liam Weldon.
Mary continued: “Roddy was a popular man, loved and respected by so many. Sadly he passed away in August 2015. Roddy played a key role in the production of Down the Corner and the Ballyfermot Community Arts Workshop.”
Mary thanked staff of BCCC and the Ballyfermot Community Association for facilitating the event.
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