Variations on a theme for Longford's Backstage Youth Theatre
There is quite a buzz about the drama on offer in Backstage this weekend.
This year Backstage Theatre has augmented the talented members of Backstage Youth Theatre with professional director, Ursula McGinn, to bring Katie Hims’ beautiful, frenetic, hilarious play Variations to the stage.
The story follows thirteen-year-old Alice who wishes her life was completely different. She wakes up one morning to find that her life is different. In fact, it’s so different that all she wants to do is get back to normality.
Aodhán Reid is one of the young Backstage Youth Theatre actors participating in this exciting production: “I play the role of Dean, the uncle of the main character,” he told the Leader.
Aodhán is excited about his involvement in Variations: “I started in Backstage Youth Theatre a little over a year ago. I have done three productions since. In last year's Panto I played the role of Spiderman, I am really looking forward to bringing this play to the audience.”
Variations is a recently commissioned play written specifically for young people: “It's targeted at a teenage audience, but it is very much a play for everyone. It's funny, with great characterisation,” Aodhán says, “There are 13 in the cast. We are really enjoying the rehearsal process, they are a hilarious bunch to work with.”
Working with professional director Ursula McGinn has been an enjoyable experience for Aodhán: “She is lovely, very kind and patient. A pleasure to work with. We have learned a lot from her.”
The lead role in Variations is played by Aileen Gordon: “The process is amazing. It's a great experience to work with a professional director. I think all of us have learned so much working with Ursula.”
Aileen says the play itself is quite intriguing: “It's a great story, a very different type of play. It is non-linear, each of the characters go through a different journey and all have their own story. It's not chronological, each is in a different universe, but it all knits together.”
This is Aileens fourth year with Backstage Youth Theatre. The call of the stage is very strong: “I'm in 6th year, so I am filling out my CAO at present. All my choices are drama. I love all aspects of the drama, but acting is my real passion.”
Variations is a play about family, string theory and breakfast that features a wealth of talented young actors. Aodhán believes everyone should see it: “I think anyone who comes to the show won't be disappointed. There is a lot to it, so many great performances and it's great value for money!”
Group booking rate of €8 (+ €1 booking fee) available for groups of ten or more, contact the Box Office on 043 334 7888.
Tickets for Variations from Backstage Theatre & BYT at Backstage Theatre Longford on Friday, September 22 and Saturday, September 23 at 8pm are available on 0433347888 or backstage.ie