Local theater director Julie Generes and Center Of Performing Arts present the dark Irish comedy, “The Beauty Queen of Leenane”. This play by Martin McDonagh takes place in the small Irish town of Leenane in the 1980’s. It is the story of Maureen and Mag Folan, a repressed spinster and her nagging mother. When Maureen finds a boyfriend, Mag will do anything she can to make sure the flame does not get lit.
The drama actually began before the curtain call – the Saturday show we attended was nearly derailed when the actor playing Ray Dooley was unable to make the performance. It was through a stroke of genius and the courage of director Julie Generes’ son, William Faust, that the show went on. Without ever reading the script, William stepped in to fill the shoes of Ray, the younger brother of Maureen Folan’s love interest, Pato Dooley. Despite the circumstances, Faust quickly eased into the character, a lively and boastful lad, with a provocative and comedic delivery. The success of this performance is a testament to the talent of all four actors involved, all of which also present a thick Irish brogue. Now fully rehearsed, Mr. Faust will continue to fill the role of Ray for this weekend’s run.
“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” has three more performances March 28, 29 and April 4 at the Center of Performing Arts, 201 N. Columbia St. Purchase tickets online at COPA’s website www.centerofperformingarts.net or call (985) 727 – 4638.
