Malachy McKenna's first play is set on a Canadian tobacco farm, which may seem an odd choice for an Irish author. The perspective of Tillsonburg, however, is that of two young Irishmen roving abroad for money and adventure; and it is easy to empathise with their characters and situation.
The first half displays to advantage the author's easy touch with comedy. Mac and Digger are light of heart and tongue, and their relationships with their gruff employer Jon, and the drug-addicted labourer Billy, are amusing and credible. They are less easy with Pete the Indian, an intimidating figure.
There are occasional tensions between the friends, possibly due to hard work and some alcohol intake. But, as the play proceeds, these erupt to expose deep-rooted resentments. The two have, we learn, travelled together before, and have had a nightmare experience they find near-impossible to discuss. When suppressed emotions explode, it makes for gripping drama.
There is, however, more. A separate drama involving Jon and Pete provides the catalyst which compels the friends to confront their own dark spaces. But it is too much of a good thing, as if the exigencies of plot-making override considerations of balance and credibility. But it certainly holds the attention, marking the author's imagination and versatility.
McKenna is also, in the role of Digger, an attractive actor, as are Colin Rothery (Mac), Brent Hearne (Jon), Billy (Paul Roe) and Peter Byrne (Pete). Liam Heffernan elicits forceful performances from them, with an atmospheric bunkhouse set by Robert Lane. An interesting and entertaining debut.
Until mid-November; booking at 016763071