Freshly Ground Theatre brings ‘Sióg’ to Tymon Park

SIOG, which means fairy in Irish, is a magical outdoor adventure for children of all ages and their families, reports Steven Reid.

The 90-minute show will run each Saturday and Sunday from June 24 until July 9 in the Fairy Garden in Tymon Park in Tallaght.

Freshly Ground intends for this production to create a healthier dialogue around the theme of sustainability with children and to show them that theatre can exist in lots of different spaces through their site-specific production.

The theatre is currently in residence at the Civic and has been working on ‘Sióg’ in some capacity since 2021 after it was commissioned by Ready Steady Show!

The original idea involved an interactive door that used AR technology to foster a unique experience for children and parents alike around the theme of fairies, which led to further commission by Tallaght Community Arts through SDCC.

These ideas and commissions collided to create a 30-minute show that would eventually go under further development and become ‘Sióg’; a “full-length, immersive, and interactive live outdoor performance,” according to a press release issued.

Conrad Jones-Brangan and Jacqui Whelan (Pic: Mark Stedman)

During the show: “The audience goes on a journey that steps into the enchanting world of fairies and immerses themselves in a world of magic and nature.

“Whimsical dances and songs enlighten everyone about how the fairies have been protecting these wondrous woods for thousands of years.”

Sustainability is a consistent theme throughout, with children being taught that respecting and caring for nature allows its “magic” to flourish, while neglecting it can unleash an array of negative consequences.

In addition to the live production, Freshly Ground is working with young people to install a sustainable piece of art that will be a part of a nature gallery in Tymon Park that is curated by the participants themselves.

Performances will take place over the course of three consecutive weekends, June 24 and 25, July 1 and 2, as well as July 8 and 9.

There will be two shows each day, at 11am and 2pm.

Tickets cost €6 for a child and €8 for an adult, with a family ticket (two adults and two children) on offer for €25.

Bookings can be made on the Civic’s website HERE.