Entertainment

Haunting family secrets unearthed in new play Famla

Tinderbox Theatre Company presents Famla by John McCann. Picture by Carrie Davenport
Tinderbox Theatre Company presents Famla by John McCann. Picture by Carrie Davenport Tinderbox Theatre Company presents Famla by John McCann. Picture by Carrie Davenport

FAMILY secrets and the disturbing consequences when they are unearthed are explored in the new play, Famla, by acclaimed Co Armagh writer John McCann.

McCann's latest play will premier at The MAC from March 21 to 25 followed by a short tour to Cushendall, Coalisland, Derry and Armagh.

It stars Rhodri Lewis (Torchwood, Gavin and Stacey), Hayley McQuillan (My Mother and Other Strangers) and Tara Lynne O’Neill (The Fall, Line of Duty) in a dark comedy about three lost souls searching for salvation.

The play centres on an old abandoned house that looks strangely familiar to the protagonists, particularly when one is revealed not to have moved on.

Famla director Patrick J O’Reilly believes the play will resonate with audiences everywhere.

"Every family has buried secrets and lies that we hope will never come to surface but John’s play beautifully digs them up and reveals the truth for us all to witness," he says.

"With its riotous, nightmarish, grotesque and juicy behaviour and dialogue, John creates a menacing and brooding atmosphere that will keep audiences wondering what's coming next as it twists and turns between light and shade."

A former artistic director with Tinderbox, McCann – now living in Dundee – is currently under commission with Replay Theatre Company, writing a new play for young audiences, Dancing At The Disco At The End Of The World, which will be staged in the autumn of this year.

:: Tickets for Famla at The MAC are available at via TheMACLive.com.