‘The Black Stranger’ goes on stage at Balla venue

Balla Drama Group will make a welcome return to stage next weekend when they bring Gerard Healy’s story of life during famine times to the stage in Balla Resource Centre.

The play, directed by Joan King, follows the lives of two farming families in the west of Ireland during the time of the Irish Famine.

Bringing these families to life is a cast of nine who hail from Balla, the surrounding towns and from up the road in County Galway.

Balla Drama Group have a long tradition of excellent productions and are looking forward to the opening night of their new play.

Alan Heneghan, chairperson of Balla Drama Group, is proud of the group’s new production.

He said: “It has been amazing to see how the play has developed from our first meeting in early September to the high quality production that we are now ready to perform.

"We wish to thank all that have helped us along the way, especially all the guidance from our director Joan King who has brought out the very best in all nine cast members.

“Audiences can expect strong performances mixed with some really lovely emotional moments as the two families struggle through famine times.”

The set was designed and built by All-Ireland winning set designer Jody Durkan from Kiltimagh and has been transformed into a traditional cottage from the 1840s by Mayo Arts Squad under the excellent guidance of Mick Smyth.

The cast are supported by a strong backstage and front of house crew.

For two nights only audiences will get the chance to be entertained but also to remember the struggles of our ancestors who fought to survive through the Great Hunger.

The show will take place in Balla Resource Centre, The Square, Balla, on Friday and Saturday, December 1 and 2, at 8 p.m. Door open from 7 p.m.

Tickets, which are €15, are available from the box office on the night but to secure tickets drop a text to (087) 3588115.

Pre-booked tickets can be paid for on the night.

All proceeds from the show on December 2 will be donated to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, a cause close to the group’s heart.