Laois theatre group dedicates new production in memory of much loved member

The Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group is dedicating their new production in memory of a much loved member who passed away last year. 

The group is set to bring Bernard Farrell’s situational comedy 'I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell' to Portlaoise next week and will dedicate their performance to Abbeyleix man Paul Kenna, a long standing member, who passed away in June 2024. 

The play, directed by David Corri, features a group therapy session led by the enigmatic and manipulative Suzy (Mary Dermody).The participants Joe Fell (John Kavanagh), Roger (Kevin Lalor-Fitzpatrick), Peter (JoeMurphy), Maureen (Alex O’Neal), and Rita (Maeve Heneghan) reveal more about themselves than they intended, leading to hilariously awkward situations. Paddy (Michael Brennan) the Group Attendant, provides the “normal” balance to the proceedings. Clashing egos and misunderstandings devolve into absurd confrontations creating tension between Susy’s calm demeanour and the chaos of the group members. As Suzy applies increasing pressure, the cracks begin to show, and buried conflicts, resentments, and fearserupt.

The play balances absurdity with authenticity, keeping the audience laughing while reflecting on human nature's vulnerabilities and contradictions. Themes of control and human vulnerability are explored, exposing a thin line between therapy and coercion. Set in the 1980s, the play is a satire of the self-help culture and a hilarious commentary on power dynamics within supposed safe spaces.

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The Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group was formed in September 2016. Its first major production was “Big Maggie” by John B Keane in 2017. This was followed in 2018 by Hugh Leonard’s “Da” and by Keane’s “Sive”, and ”The Field” in 2019 and 2022. Last year’s production was “The Country Boy” by John Murphy.The group is community based and is made up of experienced actors, set builders, technicians, stage managers, producers, and backstage crew. The group has a steady intake of talented newcomers to the theatrical world each year.

"If you are interested in participating and would like to become a member of Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group, feel free to get in contact with us on our Facebook page," said a spokesperson for the group. 

For membership enquiries, please contact Kevin Lalor-Fitzpatrick at 087 9614235"Thank you, the audience, for your support and sincere thanks to all who made this production possible." 

'I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell' will be staged at the Dunamaise Arts Centre, Portlaoise on Thursday and Friday, May 15 & 16.Other venues include - Thomastown Community Centre on May 9 and May 10, and Tuar Ard Arts Centre Moate on Saturday, May 24.