A unique retelling of The Children of Lir, from the perspective of the often-overlooked women in the enchanting world of Irish mythology. The legend begins with a mention of Eva, mother to children but after her death, she is seemingly forgotten, as was her sister Ailbhe. The third sister Aoife was immortalised in the story as a villainous stepmother. But what was their story?

Could you forgive your sister if she cursed your children to be swans? And she married your husband after you passed? And she stole your good perfume? Step into a magical realm where three sisters attempt to mend their relationships through comedy, drama, and all the enchantment of Irish mythology.

Championed by a team of female and nonbinary Galway creatives, this show promises to be a farewell to remember for Eva’s Echo Theatre. Who will close their final curtain after 7 years of staging new works in Galway with Ruffled Feathers by co-founder Rena Bryson. The company aims to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves through their work, and honor Eva through the company name Eva’s Echo.

The play was brought to life by the wonderful talents of Rena Bryson, Hazel Doolan, and the debut performance by Leanne Powell. Órla Kelly Smith returns to the company but this time in the director seat. Hazel Stanley is designing both the set and costume. The production is stage-managed by Hannah Bevan with lighting design by Lucy Birmingham and produced by Alaoise Scherer.

Galway City Arts Office, East London New Works Festival, The Town Hall Studio, the Mick Lally Theatre and Loughwell Farm have supported the development of this production.

Ruffled Feathers was performed at the Mick Lally Theatre from November 22nd – 23rd 2024.

Show Pictures

Poster

Show Programme

Ruffled Feathers programme – Mick Lally Theatre Download

Development Period

A work in progress version of Ruffled Feathers was performed at the Town Hall Theatre studio followed by a 3 night run at New Works Festival London. This work in progress is made possible by the support of The Galway City Arts Office.