The Albright Theatre proudly presents “The Cripple of Inishmaan” by Martin McDonagh.
Martin McDonagh’s “The Cripple of Inishmaan” is spun in the great tradition of Irish storytelling. In this dark and wicked comedy the impoverished island community of Inishmaan is dazzled by the "glitz and glamour" of Hollywood when director, Robert Flaherty visits the neighbouring island of Inishmore to cast his upcoming film. Cripple Billy, who would like nothing more than to leave the cliffs of Ireland and his tedious life behind for the hills of Hollywood, hitches a ride and auditions – not knowing how his journey will affect his life and the lives of everyone around him.
"I am very excited to be directing this great show with such a wonderful cast,” says Director, JP Quirk of South Elgin, “It is a true DARK comedy, that will leave you not knowing what is going to happen next and often questioning….wait…did that just happen?"
Aidan Descourouez (Batavia) takes on the role of Billy Claven, a young cripple boy who dreams of a life much different than his own. Maureen Morley (Batavia) and Marge Uhlarik-Boller (Geneva) play the eccentric and hilarious “funny Aunties” who raised the orphaned Billy. Craig Gustafson (Lombard) barrels his way into every conversation as the “full of hot air” town gossip, JohnnyPateenMike. Billy’s friends and constantly bickering siblings, Bartley and Helen McCormick, are brought to life by Johnny Hohman (Batavia) and Keely Shinners (Ingleside). The “rough around the edges” town handyman, BabbyBobby Bennett, is played by Justin Schaller (Wheaton). Lars Timpa (Wood Dale) plays Doctor McSharry, Inishmaan’s level-headed physician. The alcohol-soaked mother of JohnnyPateenMike, Mammy O’Dougal, is played by Linda Miller (Elburn). The cast is supported by Stage Managers: Erin Cauley (St. Charles) and Amanda Schiferl (Bartlett) and Understudy for Bartley McCormick: Jack Mueller (Batavia).
"Directing this show often left me feeling like I was watching my Irish family go through the daily routine of their lives – with all the embellishments and all the tall tales”, remarks Quirk, “This cast has really honed in on the great comedy this show has to offer, but never forgets to add just enough darkness and drama. It is a show that will leave you talking.”
“The Cripple of Inishmaan” will run weekends March 2nd – 17th. Performance times are: Friday and Saturday evenings at 8pm and Sunday afternoons at 2pm. Rated PG-14. Albright Theatre Company, 100 N. Island Ave. (3rd floor of the Batavia Government building), Batavia, IL, 60510. Tickets are $13 for Adults & $10 for Students/Seniors. Reservations are recommended – please call (630) 406-8838. For more information, please visit the Albright Theatre website at www.albrighttheatre.com.
