2011 Here we go.



The Field by John B. Keane - January 2011

Our first trip away in 2011 took us to The Olympia Theatre, Dublin. On Saturday 29th January a group of our BARA members went to Dublin to see the well-known play by John B. Keane, “The Field”.
It was a very good production but in some respects was different to the famous film of 1990 which had Richard Harris in his memorable performance as the 'Bull' McCabe. In particular the brutality of the murder of the Englishman isn’t emphasised as much. Although the murder remains the focal point of the play, the producer tones down the murder committed by adding more to the comedy in the play.
“The Field” is very entertaining with plenty of funny moments. The play though still remains true to its somewhat dark depiction of life in rural Ireland in the Fifties. The 'Bull' McCabe, played by the American actor Brian Dennehy, is a tenant farmer with a ferocious temper and is obsessed with the field he has been renting from a poor widow. He tells of the 3 acres of rocky coastland that has been turned into rich pasture through his toil and hard work. When the widow decides to put the land up for auction, the 'Bull' McCabe is outraged and decides to murder the buyer, an Englishman. The Bull and his son Tadgh beat the Englishman to death and still though it is quite interesting to see him say an Act of Contrition into his victim’s ear. Thereafter he bullies the townspeople into remaining silent. Not even the Church can break their silence. The loyal town drunk, 'Bird' O'Donnell is well-portrayed, also Dandy and Mrs. McCabe. Bosco Hogan plays the Bishop and Malcolm Adams the Priest.
The 'Bull', at the end of the play, closes the scene by saying that all will forget this in the passing of time but adds, almost grudgingly, except he himself, so you get another insight into his criminal act.
The whole play was thoroughly enjoyed by all and we came away not feeling too gloomy after this horrible murder.

Bridie Loughman

B.A.R.A. Activities 2011

Ballinasloe Active Retirement Association

Contact; ballinasloeactive@gmail.com


Activities Timetable 2010



Monthly meetings for all members : 1st Wednesday of every month @ 3pm in Gullane’s Hotel, Main St.


Informal meetings (tea/coffee/chat) every other Wednesday @ 3pm in the Gullane's Hotel


Various courses, Creative and learning programmes and informative talks are arranged throughout the year.


As “Be Active, Be Healthy” remains out motto, members are encouraged to participate in the activity of their choice


Enquiries to :Kaye Killeen, Hon. Secretary. Phone: 090- 9642597 or Chris O’Flynn ( Social Secretary). Phone: 090-9642870




Aquarobics
2-3 pm Leisure centre/
Kingfisher club
Monday and Thursday

Bowls
7.30 - 10pm John Shea Hall Creagh
Monday

Bridge
8pm Bridge rooms Sarsfield Rd.
Monday-beginners Thursday.

Book Club
4pm Library
2nd Tuesday of every month

Singing group
10.30 - 12.30 Family Centre
Thursday

Knitting /crafts group
(blankets for Belarus)
10.30 - 12.30 Gullanes Hotel
Monday

Pitch and Putt (Weather permitting)
Creagh training centre, Creagh Rd.
Anyday

Walking club
10.30 - 12.30 Pearse’s G.A.A Club,(winter ) and various places of interest (summer)
Tuesday