Uaigneas an Ghleanna: A Classic Reborn on a New Tallaght Stage

Aisteoirí Thamhlachta, the Irish-language drama group based in Tallaght, is set to present a special theatrical event this month with performances of Uaigneas an Ghleanna, an Irish-language translation by Tomás Ó Flaithearta of J.M. Synge’s classic play, The Shadow of the Glen.

The production will take place, under the guidance of director, Ciaran McMahon, on Friday and Saturday, February 20th and 21st, marking an important milestone for the group as it will be staged in their brand-new theatre space.

Founded with the aim of promoting Irish-language drama in the Tallaght area, Aisteoirí Thamhlachta has steadily built a reputation for thoughtful, engaging productions that place the Irish language at the heart of contemporary cultural life.

This latest staging is particularly significant, not only because of the enduring importance of Synge’s work in the Irish theatrical canon, but also because it celebrates the opening of the group’s new performance home.

Set in rural Ireland in the early 20th Century, Uaigneas an Ghleanna explores themes of isolation, longing and frustration.

Presented through the Irish language, this translation offers audiences a fresh lens on a familiar story, while staying true to the emotional depth and sharp social observation of the original.

The performances will be staged in Aisteoirí Thamhlachta’s new theatre, located on the same property as the Irish-language café, ‘Aon Scéal? Café’. This shared space represents a growing cultural hub for Irish speakers and supporters of the language in Tallaght, combining theatre, conversation and community under one roof.

The café, situated in the heart of Tallaght Village,  has already become a popular meeting place, and the addition of a dedicated theatre space further strengthens the area’s Irish-language infrastructure.

Adding to the richness of the evening, the night’s entertainment will also feature newly composed works performed by Lorcán Mac Mathúna, Éamon Galldubh and Martin Tourish.

All three musicians are well respected for their contributions to traditional and contemporary Irish music, and their involvement brings an additional artistic dimension to the event. The inclusion of new compositions alongside a classic theatrical text highlights the living, evolving nature of Irish-language culture, where tradition and innovation exist side by side.

For Aisteoirí Thamhlachta, this production is both a celebration and a statement of intent. Performing Uaigneas an Ghleanna in their own theatre signals a new chapter for the group, offering greater creative freedom and the opportunity to host a wider range of productions and cultural events in the future. It also underlines their commitment to making Irish-language theatre accessible and relevant to local audiences.

Tickets for both performances are available through Eventbrite, and demand is expected to be strong given the significance of the occasion and the calibre of artists involved.

With a compelling drama, live music, and the excitement of a new venue, this promises to be a memorable cultural event for Tallaght and for Irish-language theatre more broadly.

Doors opening at 6.30pm, with performance commencing at 7pm. For more information, please visit Aisteoirí Thamhlachta/Facebook.