MEM Players stage 'Widows' Paradise'
A hilarious new play called 'Widow's Paradise' will be staged in the Milltown Community Centre from Thursday, April 22 to Sunday, April 25 by members of the MEM Players.This three act comedy, written by nothern playwright Sam Cree, is set on one Friday evening in the 1960's. The story centres around a group of five women who travel to a caravan park for a weekend break.However, their intention of having a quiet weekend away is upset by the arrival of three men on a fishing trip. A passing traveller calls in when his car breaks down. The local farmer also pays a visit. There are no shortage of disagreements and misunderstandings, all providing hilarious consequences.Founded in 1998, MEM Players are a group of amateur drama enthusiasts from the Milltown, Emper and Moyvore.Each year they stage a production, the first ones performed in the old parish hall, but which are now held in the larger and more modern venue in the new Milltown Community Centre - just a fifteen minute drive from Mullingar, and situated just a mile from the village of Rathconrath on the Ballymahon road.Their recent productions include "My Wife's family" by Hal Stephens and Harry B. Linton, as well as plays by Rathowen playwright, Jimmy Keary, including 'Where There is a Will'; 'Up the Garden Path'; 'Mother Knows Best'; 'Here comes the Bride' and 'Fortunes and Misfortunes'.Last year, they had a very successful run with the comedy "Cupid Wore Skirts", another play written by Sam Cree. As well as cast members, the MEM Players also have a group of people who interested in helping out behind the scenes, which means that each production has a professional back room team comprising of hairdresser, makeup artist, costume design, lighting and sound technicians, stage design and stage hands.Their members have participated in various drama workshops, some of which were held exclusively for MEM Players and others which involve members from other amateur drama groups. Last year, two of their members received a bursary from Westmeath County Council to take part in a Drama League of Ireland Summer School week in Limerick.Admission costs €10 for adults and €5 for children. Tickets are available from Rochforts Newsagent on Dominick Street, from Lorraine in Ilia Gourmet on Pearse Street. Or simply call Ann at 0449373370, Vonnie at 0449355276 or from any member of MEM Players.