Mayo tidal pool setting for unique theatrical experience

A UNIQUE theatrical adventure - Disappearing Islands: Songs from the edge of the world - is to be staged at a tidal swimming pool in north Mayo.

The Performance Corporation - Ireland’s award-winning, site specific specialists - are celebrating their 20-year anniversary by embarking on this novel theatrical show.

Inspired by the landscape and the stories of loss at sea from the region, the show will be performed in the stunning surrounds of Belmullet’s tidal pool from September 16 to 19 when contemporary dancers, a mezzo-soprano, acapella male vocalists and a world-class accordionist will create a show filled with heart, hope and humour.

Disappearing Islands is an immersive experience in every sense. The audience is invited to take a communal dip in the tidal pool for the show’s finale - a moment that reflects the sea’s ability to bring people together.

Tickets will go on sale from July 20 via www.DisappearingIslands.ie.

Staged around the tidal swimming pool that overlooks the beautiful vista of Blacksod Bay, the performance blends theatre, dance and song to magical effect.

With one foot in the waters of the Atlantic, Disappearing Islands explores the deep influence of the sea on this coastal community, from times past to the present day. Here, the ocean is a powerful life-giving force but one that is also associated with tragedy.

Through a series of songs and dance choreographies, the play explores our contrasting emotions associated with the sea. In doing so, it touches on themes of environmental and personal loss and ultimately asks if the sea can save us from ourselves.

During their research for Disappearing Islands, the artistic team discovered unexpected inspirations and new connections. They spoke to fishermen, historians, lighthouse keepers, environmentalists and sea swimmers. This research brings an often playful texture to the piece, which takes the audience on a journey across the globe, from the D-Day beaches of Normandy, to the mythical island of Hy Brasil.

Composed by Ellen Cranitch, written by Tom Swift, directed by Jo Mangan, and produced by Once Off Productions, the show features Naomi Louise O’Connell, a mezzo soprano from Clare, Isabella Oberlander, Limerick-based dancer, Sarah Ryan, Dublin-based dancer, CODA, the Westport-based seven-piece male vocal group, and David Munnelly from Belmullet, an international accordionist.

The show is funded by the Arts Council and supported by Mayo County Council and Creative Ireland Mayo.