THE GOLD OF TRADAREE
(A Play in One Act)
By
MIRIAM GALLAGHER
COMMISSIONED BY CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL UNDER THE PER CENT FOR ART SCHEME IN RESPECT OF THE HOUSING SCHEME AT KILNASOOLAGH PARK, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE IN 2004 CHARACTERS*
(Mostly in order of appearance)
Hurler on the Ditch (Narrator) Chorus Elder; Priestess; Aoife; Etain; Cormac; Messenger (at Mooghaun Hill Fort) 1 st & 2 nd Natives Monk; Pangur Bán (His Cat) Brian Boru ; Mac Liag; 1 st & 2 nd Chief Stricken Woman; Husband; Abbot; Old Man; Sceptic Franciscan; Wise Woman Máire Rua; Donough (Her Son); Conor O’Brien (Her Husband) Suitor; Manservant; Maid Ireton; Cooper; 1 st & 2 nd Officers Edward O’Brien; Lucius (His Son) Fortune Teller; Seán; Agnes (His Wife) 1 st 2 nd, & 3rd Farmers Steward; 1 st , 2 nd & 3 rd Workers (Rahaline Estate) Sir John Scott Vandeleur; Edward Craig; Members of Rahaline Commune William Smith O’Brien; Members of Newmarket on Fergus Farming Society Percy; James; (Vandeleur’s gaming friends) 1 st & 2 nd Supporter; Newsboy Michael McNamara (Railway Worker 1854); Bríd (His Wife) Teacher (1928); Newmarket on Fergus Schoolchildren Brendan; Aisling; Lucy; Maire; Tom; Newmarket on Fergus Students Boumi, Student from Overseas Occulist (from Varden’s Pharmacy) Chief O’Brien Hurlers
• Actors can play multiple parts
2 SET
The set needs to be flexible, moveable and suited to indoors or outdoor. A bare stage with Colourful Banners, Flags, Sheets, Poles which can be used imaginatively to suggest different places and elements (e.g. Water)
COSTUMES
What might work well is having actors all wearing one colour (e.g. black) and donning certain items (hats, aprons, crowns) as appropriate. Otherwise it would be important that all at e.g Mooghaun Hill Fort wore similar garb. Likewise the Cromwellians would need to look similar to each other. This can be done with minimal effort but needs to be ‘right’.
MUSIC SUGGESTIONS
Music would be performed live where possible.
Lord Inchiquin (Turlough O’Carolan, composed c.1720 on visiting Newmarket on Fergus)
Brian Boru’s March (Seán O’Riada)
Flight of the Bumble Bee (Rimsky Korskoff)
Are You Right There, Michael, Are You Right? (Percy French)
‘In the Garden where the Praties Grow’ (Johnny Patterson) may fit in the late 1880s.
The Maids of Tradaree (P.J. Cummings 18611937) (PLAY opens with MUSIC. As it fades, LIGHTS follow HURLER on the DITCH with hurley, dribbling imaginary slither up to stage. To cheers Offstage, He mounts stage)
HURLER on the DITCH. (as if stemming applause) Oh Stop! Stop! Wait till I’m playing in Croke Park and we bring back the cup to Cora Chaitilín (Cheers OS, then laughs) But first I have to get on the team (sighs) You get tired of always being the hurler on the ditch instead of part of the main action up there with the lads (excited) Going for the gold! (Cheers OS. then confidential) And let me tell you something, gold is nothing strange here. Back in the old days, (points OSL) up the road at Mooghaun Hill Fort, the people of Tradraighe went for it in a big way
(MUSIC. LIGHTS change. Activity at Mooghaun Hill Fort. Ritual DANCE, during which ELDER decorates YOUNG PEOPLE with gold collars)
ELDER. As a sign that you are of age and from our place proudly wear the gold. Sons, walk tall and strong and keep to the ways of our fathers (pauses) Daughters, bind your hair with gold braid when you come at nightfall to the inner rampart. There you will be shown the mysteries (GIRLS exchange curious looks)
(ELDER EXITS, leadingYoung Men. GIRLS murmur. PRIESTESS gets gold earboxes containing gold pellets )
PRIESTESS. (fixing earboxes to Aoife’s ears) Hold still Aoife!
AOIFE. What’s going to happen tonight? (Girls exchange glances)
PRIESTESS. You’ll discover that for yourselves (fixing earboxes to Etain’s ears) Etain! how can I put on your earboxes if you keep fidgeting? (Girls giggle)
ETAIN. (fearful at sound of Squawking Birds, glances up) The sky is growing dark
PRIESTESS. (shrugs) Simply a flock of birds flying by
ETAIN. Tell us of the mysteries
PRIESTESS. You’ll find out soon enough (moves to exit, turns) And mind you keep to yourselves till nightfall
(PRIESTESS EXITS, followed by ETAIN. ENTER CORMAC. He whistles at AOIFE)
AOIFE. (runs to him) Meet me at nightfall. Make your way to the inner rampart
CORMAC. What goes on there? AOIFE. (guarded) I can’t tell you. We are bound to secrecy.
CORMAC. You‘ve no idea have you?
AOIFE. (bluffing) Of course I do
CORMAC. I know! Sacrificial rites (She looks away) Or is it Fertility rites?
AOIFE. (laughs) Oh Cormac, you are too clever for your own good
CORMAC. Can I watch?
AOIFE. My life would be forfeit if
CORMAC. (wheedling) Aoife, if I get there myself you won’t have told me (as She chuckles) You said nightfall
AOIFE. We remain in the inner rampart all night and then at sunrise –
CORMAC. So, to catch a glimpse of what goes on I must wait all night
AOIFE. Have you no patience?
CORMAC. (sighs) So be it (pauses) But how do I get there?
AOIFE. Remember I told you nothing (he nods) Take the winding track to the fort. Don’t be distracted by people trying to sell you things. Simply pass by the horses, pigs or cattle and take no notice of any farmers tilling the land. Move steadily but not too fast. You’ll draw no attention that way. There are three separate entrances. Keep going until you reach the inner rampart. If you’re seen you’ll be slaughtered
CORMAC. I’ll creep in past the standing stones and hide in the cooking place
AOIFE. Cormac, if you think you can take cover in the filachta fiadh you’re crazed
CORMAC. How will I find you?
AOIFE. Sneak past the burial mound on the west and south facing slopes. Our ritual takes place on the east side when the golden sun rises
CORMAC. (kisses her) Till nightfall
(MUSIC. Dim LIGHTS. RITUAL FIRE DANCE. Fire Image can be suggested by pyramid of figures clicking fingers in rhythm as CHORUS, wearing flickering red lights, weave in a spiral around and into pyramid. BLACKOUT with red lights flickering. Hold image. Sudden commotion OSR. LIGHTS as ENTER MESSENGER )
2 MESSENGER. (breathless) The gold is gone! (general gasp)
ELDER. All of it?
MESSENGER. Everything (general commotion)
CHORUS. Our precious treasure stolen!
PRIESTESS. This is the work of a warring tribe out for plunder
VOICE. Speeding off like hares
VOICE. Covering the length of the land with their long strides
PRIESTESS. Bearing in their greedy hands
ALL. The Gold of Tradaree!
PRIESTESS. (after a pause) But to strike while people are at prayer!
VOICE. When our back was turned!
ELDER. That is the way of invaders
(An angry PAUSE, Then a ROAR as ALL surge forward, MUSIC. EXEUNT OSL.)
HURLER on the DITCH. And so it was! For the long river coastline of Tradraighe was an open invitation to invaders! Afterwards the plunder gave rise to legends about the whereabouts of the hidden gold (laughs) Oh now, the legends about this place are fast and furious (pauses) Some say Tradraighe got its name from the strand along which oaks trees grew long ago.
(HE moves to one side as ENTER CHORUS. Movement sequence of Trees)
CHORUS. We are the Noble Trees of Clare
ALL. Of woods we are chieftains
VOICE. Airig Fed.
VOICE. King of the Forest,
VOICE. The Mighty Oak
ALL. and Lord Protector of the county,
3 VOICE. gives shelter from storm and biting winds
VOICE. from lightning, harsh and raging sun.
ALL. Of woods we are chieftains
VOICE. None can compare
ALL. We drink the life force of our rivers
VOICE. The elixir of our streams
VOICE. Oakwoods of beauty
ALL. We are the Noble Trees of Clare.
(As CHORUS gathers in a semicircle, ENTER 1 st NATIVE, who eyes Trees greedily)
1 st NATIVE. (removes a large branch. Tree groans) This is a fine branch to make a shelter with (drags branch across stage, Tree groans. CHORUS closes tightly US)
(ENTER 2nd NATIVE from opposite side, who bumps into 1 st NATIVE)
2nd NATIVE. Not so fast!
1 st NATIVE. (startled) Holy Fathers! (relieved) Oh! its only you. Help me bring this fine branch over to the lake dwelling
2nd NATIVE. Are your wits crazed? What you hold is part of an oak tree
1 st NATIVE. (debonair) You are mistaken. This branch belongs to a common tree
2nd NATIVE. Name it (as 1 st Native hesitates) Name the tree
1 st NATIVE. (blusters) Birch (1 st N. scoffs) Elm (1 st N .laughs) Hawthorn
2nd NATIVE. Soon you’ll be telling me this is one of the lower orders (mocks) Like an aspen, a white hazel or a spindle tree (pauses) You know the punishment for damaging a noble tree?
1 st NATIVE. Two heifers but I
2nd NATIVE. Your actions will bring down a curse on us all
1 st NATIVE. When I reached out for this branch it was no oak tree that I saw (as 2 nd Native tries to speak) nor any noble tree not ash, not elder (peters out)
4 2nd NATIVE. There must be something wrong with your eyes
1 st NATIVE. Listen here. I can see as sharp and straight as the next man (stumbles) I swear by the holy well of St Luchtighern that it was not an oak tree
2 nd NATIVE. (shakes head) Come with me
1 st NATIVE. Where?
2 nd NATIVE. Firstly to restore this branch to the Oak tree from which you took it (as 2 nd Native tries to speak) Then you will follow me to
1 st NATIVE. (sulky) The last time I followed you it was to an abandoned place.
2 nd NATIVE. What are you blathering about?
1 st NATIVE. That cursed place over the hill. I know the three signs of a cursed place (1 st N. sighs) Elder, corncrake and nettles
2nd NATIVE. (hearing a sudden noise) Quick!
1 st NATIVE. Where?
2nd NATIVE. To the holy well to cure your eyesight. Where else?
(EXEUNT SL. as Chorus gathers in semicircle SC.)
CHORUS. We are the noble trees of Clare
VOICE. Airig Fed
ALL. Of woods we are chieftains
VOICE. Oak
VOICE. Hazel
VOICE. Holly
VOICE. Yew
VOICE. Ash
VOICE. Pine.
ALL. Noble trees
VOICE. Not commoners like (derisive) alder, willow, hawthorn
5 VOICE. (scoffs) Rowan, birch, or elm
ALL. Fodla fedo
VOICE. All commoners!
(TREES Rustle, fold leaves. BIRDSONG. MONK ENTERS with PANGUR BÁN)
MONK. Ah! This is our very own place, Pangur Bán (affectionate) my small white cat with eyes of gold (strokes cat) Purring now are you? (smiles) Ar mhaite leis féin dheinneann an cat crónán (laughs) Sure everyone knows it’s for its own good that a cat purrs (sits, gazes fondly at cat beside him, recites the following verse)
MONK. I and Pangur Ban, my cat, ‘Tis a like task we are at; Hunting mice is his delight, Hunting words I sit all night.
Better far than praise of men ‘Tis to sit with book and pen; Pangur bears me no ill will, He too plies his simple skill
(A Noise disturbs Pangur Bán, who EXITS SL.)
MONK. (looking after Cat) Off hunting mice are you? Go about your work, while I sit here hunting words (takes up quill and copies onto vellum, pauses at sound of BIRDSONG, looks around, sighs happily, then recites the following)
MONK. A hedge of trees surrounds me: A blackbird sings to me The cuckoo chants to me (copying) (startled by a noise) May the Lord protect me from Doom! (glances around, then relieved) I write well under the greenwood
[from: The Scribe,Anon, prob.9 th century]
(ENTER Natives SR. dragging branch. Monk is copying)
1 st NATIVE. (whispers) Don’t let that monk see what we are doing
2nd NATIVE. He is completely occupied copying manuscripts with the ink of the green skinned holly.
6 1 st NATIVE. Shh! He’ll hear you
2 nd NATIVE. No chance. The only thing he will hear is the bell. All monks are slaves to it. (laughs) One time St. Ciaran jumped up so quickly at the sound of the bell that he frightened the wild deer, whose horns were his bookstand (laughs) and the creature ran away with his book!
(Natives Creep nearer SC., stop at the sound of Pangur Bán’s miaou (OSL.)
MONK. (glances towards OSL, smiles, then recites as he copies) Oftentimes a mouse will stray In the hero Pangur’s way; Often times my keen thought set Takes a meaning in its net When a mouse darts from his den, O how glad is Pangur then!
(Pangur Bán ENTER SL., chases after Natives, unseen by Monk copying)
MONK. So in peace our tasks we ply, Pangur Ban, my cat and I; In our arts we find our bliss, I have mine and he has his.
[Pangur Ban,Anon, 8 th or early 9 th century ;Trns: Robin Flower]
(Monk copies. Natives drag branch across stage with Pangur Bán in playful pursuit)
2 nd NATIVE. (whispers) You’d think his hand would be weary from writing
1 st NATIVE. (whispers) Hurry, or it will be dark before we reach the holy well
2 nd NATIVE. (to Pangur Bán) Shoo!
(Unseen by Monk, Natives EXIT with branch, chased by Pangur Bán)
MONK. (rolls up vellum, rises) Now where is my small white cat with eyes of gold?(glances about) Pangur Bán, Psshssh whsshh pssh whssh! (as he moves to exit) Pangur Bán! Pssh whssh whssh! Pangur! Pangur! Pangur Bán!
(As Monk EXITS SL,Crossfade LIGHTS to DSR.)
7 HURLER on the DITCH. Of all the famous sons from around these parts –and there are many it is said none could be greater than Brian Boru, who was born not far from this very spot
(MUSIC. ENTER BRIAN BORU, CHIEFS, COURTIERS. Laughter. Wine is poured. Goblet offered to King Brian)
BRIAN BORU. (takes goblet, smiles at Mac Liag) Let the first bright cup be given to Mac Liag (hands goblet to Courtier, who gives it to Mac Liag. Wine is poured)
MAC LIAG. (raises goblet) Brian Boru!
1st CHIEF. May his seed endure forever!
MAC LIAG. For the next thousand years
2nd CHIEF. (jovial) And a thousand years after that (All laugh)
1st CHIEF. (raises goblet) Donough, the King’s worthy son! (All raise goblets) May he follow where his father leads (All drink)
ALL. Maith Thu, Brian Boru!
(Feasting. Dancing. A lull. MUSIC: Brief snatch of Brian Boru’s March very faint. 1st Chief listens, looks uneasy, moves DSR., followed by 2nd Chief)
2nd CHIEF. What ails you?
1st CHIEF. Nothing. Nothing at all (looks uneasily at King Brian)
2nd CHIEF. Why do you look with sorrow on the King?
1st CHIEF. (sighs) I was thinking how he has served us well
2nd CHIEF. Chasing off the Vikings, who thought they could sail up the Shannon, build a settlement at Bunratty and plunder Tradraighe! (chuckles) Remember that?
1st CHIEF. I do (hesitates) and yet
2nd CHIEF. Small wonder he is known as ‘The Augustus of the west of Europe’ (laughs) Mark my words if the Norse dare to darken these shores again, Brian Boru will send them back where they came from. Make no mistake about that!
BRIAN BORU. More wine! (wine given) Today I want only happy faces at my table (seeing 1 st Chief) What’s up with him? You’d think he’s seen a ghost (Laughter)
8 HURLER on the DITCH. (as EXEUNT) Maybe he had! For, thanks to St. Luchtighern, there is always someone in this place with second sight, someone who knows what lies ahead. Whether it be good or bad news. In this case, both. First, the good news. A glorious victory for Brian Boru at the battle of Clontarf, his 26 th battle against the Danes (Battle sounds. Cheers) And now, the bad news
VOICE. The King is dead! Slain in his tent!
(MUSIC: Brian Boru’s March (slow) H. on D. stands to one side as ALL proceed up centre aisle bearing bier covered by cloak. Bier is placed SC. A Courtier places Brian’s crown on top of bier. Music in b/g while following laments are heard)
CHORUS. Oh, where, Kincora! is Brian the Great? And where is the beauty that once was thine? Oh, where are the princes and nobles that sate At the feast in thy halls, and drank the red wine? Where, Oh Kincora?
VOICE. And where is Donough, King Brian’s worthy son?
VOICE. And where is Conaing, the Beautiful Chief? And Kian, and Core?
Mac LIAG. Alas! They are gone – They have left me alone with my grief, Left me, Kincora
VOICE. They are gone, those heroes of royal birth who plundered no churches, and broke no trust,
Mac LIAG. ‘Tis weary for me to be living on earth When they, oh Kincora, lie low in the dust!
ALL. Low, oh Kincora!
Mac LIAG Oh, dear are the images my memory calls up Of Brian Boru! – how he would never miss to give me at the banquet the first bright cup! Ah! Why did he heap on me honour like this?
ALL. Why, oh Kincora?
(MUSIC louder. Mac Liag dashes forward to bier, kneels, then stands)
Mac LIAG. I am Mac Liag and my home is on the Lake; Thither often, to that palace whose beauty is fled
9 Mac LIAG. Came Brian to ask me, and I went for his sake. Oh,my grief! That I should live, and Brian be dead! Dead, oh Kincora!
VOICES. Oh,my grief! That I should live, and Brian be dead! Dead, oh Kincora!
[Kincora, Mac Liag, Attrib 11 th century]
(They close in to bier. MUSIC fades. LIGHTS change, CHORUS forms dolmen shape)
CHORUS. We are the stones of Clare
ALL. Here since Time began
VOICE. Our belly is an altar
VOICE. Our arms a tomb
ALL. where the dead shelter within our embrace.
VOICE. Here forever.
ALL. We are the very bones of Clare
(as CHORUS EXITS, HURLER on the DITCH moves DSR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. People come the world over to marvel at the stones of Clare. Beyond at The Burial place of the Bright Lake in Tuam Fionn Loca, you’ll find a plague stone in the outside of the boundary wall near the south west corner (smiles) And I will tell you now how that stone got its name (pauses) Around these parts there lived a woman who was sore afflicted. To such an extent that she aggravated the living daylights out of her husband a good man in his own way
(ENTER WIFE crying, followed by HUSBAND)
HUSBAND. Woman, will you leave off your crying and commoting!
WIFE. How can I? (clutches head, groans) I am fit for nothing but the grave
HUSBAND. Listen here to me. We will get you a physician
WIFE. (horrified) Oh no!
10 HUSBAND. Rest easy now (showing off) Remember the three things that constitute a physician: a complete cure; leaving no blemish behind; a painless examination
[From: The Triads of Ireland, Anon. 9 th century]
WIFE. How can there be a painless examination when the slightest touch to my head sends me into the furies?
HUSBAND. (sighs) If you won’t agree to a physician (aside) like any right minded person (aloud) then get water from the holy well, and boil it up to make a drink
WIFE. Oh aren’t you the right amadán!
HUSBAND. What?
WIFE. Sure everyone knows water from a holy well will not boil
HUSBAND. Well, then there’s only one course left
WIFE. And what’s that?
HUSBAND. The Abbot
WIFE. (irate) My knees are worn out with praying (As He tries to speak) Twas only the other day I was at confession
HUSBAND. What you need is the holy well at
WIFE. Don’t talk to me about holy wells! Amn’t I after visiting St. Brigid’s well at Ballysteen?
HUSBAND. But did you wait there long enough to see if the blessed eel would appear? A sure sign that your prayer was answered
WIFE. (crying) No
HUSBAND. That’s your trouble. No patience
WIFE. I was afraid
HUSBAND. (scoffs) of a holy well?
WIFE. Tis all right for you to sneer but if the blessed eel interferes with a person that person will die within three weeks, three months or three years
HUSBAND. (chuckles) You’ll have to take that chance (pauses) Listen, you can visit when the Pattern takes place on St. Bridget’s Day
WIFE. But that’s not until the first of February. What’ll I do between this and then?
11 HUSBAND. You could try Tobar Caoidhe Foohagh* overlooking the cliffs. And remember if you see a small frog in the well that is considered a good omen
WIFE. (getting cross) You can keep your frogs
HUSBAND. Take it easy now. You must explore all possibilities (pauses) I don’t think you tried St. Flannan’s well at Drimanure.
WIFE. (tearful) I did (scratches head)
HUSBAND. That place is said to cure headaches and lameness. Candles are lit in the wellhouse and (showing off) if an eel appears your request is granted
WIFE. You can keep your eels, your frogs and your candles!
HUSBAND. (ignoring her) But of course water will not boil from this well
WIFE. (furious) Amn’t I after telling you that?
(He leads her off wailing)
HURLER on the DITCH. Poor woman! Where could she go for help? (aside) Remember this was long before Varden’s pharmacy or people like Dr. Bhamjee (aloud) What could she do? She was sore distressed. So, off with her to the abbot at Tuamfinlough later known as Fenloe
(Lights SC. ABBOT is praying)
ABBOT. Be Thou my vision. O Lord of my heart, Naught is all else to me, save that Thou art.
[A prayer,Anon, prob 8 th century;Trns; Eleanor Hull]
(ENTER Husband & Wife, crying dementedly. She clutches head, beseeches Abbot)
ABBOT. (to Wife) Are you here to confess?
WIFE. (frustrated) Amn’t I only after confessing last week?
ABBOT. Indeed, my good woman. But, which of us is without sin? (glances at Husband who looks away) Though we fall seven times seven (Wife cries)
(ENTER OLD MAN & SCEPTIC) * [i.e. St. Caoidhe’s well, south of Kilkee]
12 HUSBAND. (as They approach) Stay back! Her sickness could be catching
OLD MAN. (As Wife clutches at Abbot) Has she the pestilence?
ABBOT. (pushing her away) Be still, and I will bless you with holy water
OLD MAN. (whispers) It could be the yellow plague
HUSBAND. (ashast) An buide Connail!
OLD MAN. (whispers) They say when it sweeps over the land only one in three are left alive
ABBOT. (mimes taking water from well, sprinkling it over her head) May this water from the holy well of St. Luchtighern cure you from your sickness
HUSBAND. (to Wife) Then after a dip in the lake over there you’ll be as right as rain (She glares at him)
SCEPTIC. (whispers to old man) I wouldn’t bank on it
ABBOT. Bow your head and I will say the Prayer against Pestilence, composed by St. Colman (blesses woman)
SCEPTIC. (to Old Man) Didn’t he make that hymn while crossing from Cork to a (knowingly) safe island in the sea of Ireland
ABBOT. God’s blessing lead us, help us, May Mary’s Son veil us! May we be under His safeguard tonight!
SCEPTIC. (sniggers) Colman made sure to get away himself. Leaving nine waves between him and land! (to Old Man) But what of those left behind?
ABBOT. (after glaring at Sceptic) Noah and Abraham, Isaac the wonderful son, May they surround us against pestilence, That Famine may not come to us!
May Job with his trials Protect us past the poisons! May God’ prophets defend us,
ABBOT. May they save us from swift disease On what ever side, throughout the noisy world
[From: Hymn Against Pestilence, St. Colman, Attrib. 8 th century]
HUSBAND. Well, is the prayer working?
13 ABBOT. Let me pluck off these lumps and dash them against that stone (hurls her head ’lumps’ at stone, points) Look how the sauces rush out over the stone!
WIFE. (feels head) I am cured! Thank the Lord! (dances with joy)
OLD MAN. (amazed) Tis a miracle! (genuflects. Husband blesses himself)
(WIFE EXITS, dancing as Sceptic watches idly)
OLD MAN. Over in Cluain Lochain we have nothing like this
SCEPTIC. (mocks) Go back so to ‘the river meadow of the withered grass’ and spread the word
ABBOT. Blessed be those who have not seen but believe (pauses) Are you not from Maleery?
SCEPTIC. I am (laughs) but Tobarmaloighre holds no magic for me
HUSBAND. (to Sceptic) This is a true miracle. You saw it yourself
SCEPTIC. Listen, you can keep your pisheógs
ABBOT. (glares at Sceptic) God is not mocked (pauses) I will have three heads carved and mounted over the church door, with the head (points to Sceptic) representing the unbeliever placed in the middle
HUSBAND. (to Sceptic) That’s what you get now for your lack of faith
ABBOT. I prophesy that while the other two heads remain unaffected by weather or time, the unbeliever’s head will gradually yield to the elements (cold) After the three stones are erected, I will leave posterity to judge the truth of my cure
(As EXEUNT SL., LIGHTS on Hurler on the Ditch SR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. And he did. From that day there was no sign of any plague within a distance of two miles at any side of Tuam Fionn Loca. And later not a single case of cholera. Now if you don’t believe me you can visit the plague stone and see the three heads for yourself (moves to exit SL., pauses, turns to Audience) And take heed anyone here of little faith. Let that be a lesson to you!
(As He EXITS SL. MUSIC. ENTER CHORUS in a flowing movement sequence)
CHORUS. We are the rivers of Clare
14 VOICE. Fergus
VOICE. Inagh
VOICE. Quin
ALL. Mighty Shannon, Life force of Clare.
VOICE. We wash the pastures and the forests,
VOICE. nourish the earth.
VOICE. Fish flow in our clear waters
ALL. Leaping salmon, bream and speckled trout.
VOICE. We sing of dappled things
VOICE. minnows, ferny rocks and weeds.
ALL. Blood of Clare flowing in our veins,
VOICE. rushing, gurgling, winding, flowing,
ALL. we bring our life force
VOICE. from the airy mountains
ALL. to the gleaming sea
(MUSIC as CHORUS, forms winding shape of the River Fergus. FRANCISCAN ENTERS with fishing rod. He fishes. ENTER WISE WOMAN who surprises him)
FRANCISCAN. Glory Be! You have no business creeping up like that
WISE WOMAN. I have something to tell you
FRANCISCAN. Can’t you see I am fishing?
WISE WOMAN. What I have to impart is no small matter
FRANCISCAN. (sighs) What can be more important at this moment than fishing by the nutsweet banks of the Fergus?
WISE WOMAN. You can fish away to your heart’s content while I tell you __
15 FRANCISCAN. (interrupts) How can I catch anything with your voice hammering away in my ears? (sighs) As any fisherman knows fish like peace and quiet
WISE WOMAN. (laughs) Don’t we all when we can get it?
FRANCISCAN. Keep your voice down
WISE WOMAN. Sure wasn’t I only laughing?
FRANCISCAN. (puts fishing rod away) It’s no use. The fish won’t bite today
WISE WOMAN. Wait! (as He sighs) Will you say masses for my soul?
FRANCISCAN. I will
WISE WOMAN. In return I’ll tell you (whispers) where to find the Gold of Tradaree
FRANCISCAN. I am a man of God. What do I need with gold?
WISE WOMAN. (coy)Tis hidden near the castle at Feenish and guarded by a soldier
FRANCISCAN. (scoffs) And what proof have you?
WISE WOMAN. One night a woman who lived in the castle remained up to mind her sick child. Suddenly a soldier marched in and silently beckoned her to follow
FRANCISCAN. And did she?
WISE WOMAN. She did not and the soldier disappeared (as He scoffs) It is said had she followed him he would have shown her the gold
FRANCISCAN. (sighs) Now like a good woman, go about your business
WISE WOMAN. This is my business. To see with clear sight. To see into the heart of things. Listen, the gold is hidden in a hole near Clonloghan churchyard. Go to this place at dead of night, look down into the hole and you will see a cat below
FRANCISCAN. (blesses himself) a cat?
WISE WOMAN. The guardian of the gold. (CAT miaous OSL.) What did I tell you? (stares at him) Now do you believe me? (CAT miaous.) What are we waiting for?
FRANCISCAN. (sighs) Women!
(EXEUNT OSL. LIGHTS on Hurler on the Ditch DSR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. Now, there are many famous women from around these parts but the most famous of them all must be red haired Máire Rua. Born Mary
16 HURLER on the DITCH. Mc Mahon, she was a woman of outstanding courage (laughs) and temper! They say her black stallion would let no one else ride him (aside) which was handy enough when she was besieged by suitors.
(ENTER SL. MÁIRE RUA followed by ardent SUITOR)
SUITOR. I come to ask for your hand in marriage
MÁIRE RUA. Do you now?
SUITOR. I knew your husband God rest him Captain Neylon of Dysert O’Dea
MÁIRE RUA. Is that so?
SUITOR. We fought together in the Spanish wars
MÁIRE RUA. Did you now?
SUITOR. I will do anything you ask
MÁIRE RUA. Will you now?
SUITOR. With all my heart
MÁIRE RUA. Then ride at high speed to the cliffs of Moher
SUITOR. Your wish is my command
MÁIRE RUA. (gestures to OSL) My black stallion is outside
SUITOR. And what happens once I reach the cliffs?
MÁIRE RUA. (laughs) you’ll find out soon enough
(She EXITS SL. laughing, followed by SUITOR)
HURLER on the DITCH. And he did! (Horse noises OS) But despite numerous suitors for her hand, Máire Rua remained a widow for twenty three years before she married the love of her life in 1631
(MUSIC as ENTER MÁIRE RUA & CONOR O’BRIEN)
MÁIRE RUA. Conor O’ Brien, I will take you for my husband if you’ll have me
17 CONOR. (as She chuckles) And why wouldn’t I Mary Mc Mahon?
MÁIRE RUA. Indeed. I am a good catch
CONOR. The best in the county Clare (She laughs) Any man would be pleased at getting a £1.000 fortune from your family, the Mc Mahons of Clonderlan
MÁIRE RUA. (suddenly enraged) I’ll box your ears for that!
CONOR. (as She wrestles with him) You spitfire! (holds her tenderly) Máire Rua, you are far richer to me than the Gold of Tradaree (embraces her)
HURLER on the DITCH. Ah! (MUSIC as EXEUNT flirting) They lived happily at Leamaneh (sighs) until war came to Clare with Bunratty & Tradraighe fighting fiercely to prevent the county falling to Cromwell. During this time Máire Rua showed outstanding courage, riding at the head of their troops with Conor, the love of her life (pauses) Then one day in 1651
(ENTER MÁIRE RUA on the alert. Suddenly ENTER MANSERVANT)
MANSERVANT. (panting) There is a dying man outside (falters) shot from his horse (as She looks away) Ireton sent five of his best men disguised as sportsmen and twas one of them fired the final shot
MÁIRE RUA. (turns, shouts) What do I want with dead men here?
MANSERVANT. He died a hero’s death
(She looks OSL, beckons. CONOR is carried in to SC. She moves to him.Others EXIT)
MÁIRE RUA. (gentle) Conor, my love, I will mind you (kisses him) My husband of twenty years, you are with your own Mary now (sings or hums,lulling him. A PAUSE. She closes his eyes, weeps. ENTER Manservant with Young DONOUGH, She beckons him. They gaze at Conor. She covers his face. Donough turns away. She glares at Manservant) Find the man who has done this. And when you do let him hang! (pauses, then tenderly clasps Donough to her) Fear not Donough, my blessed boy, born at Christmastide. No one will capture this castle or take our lands
DONOUGH. How can that be after (glances at Conor) what has happened?
MÁIRE RUA. You must surrender
DONOUGH. What use is that?
MÁIRE RUA. It will show your loyalty and save your life
18 DONOUGH. With the English destroying our lands?
MÁIRE RUA. (fierce) No invader will ever beat Mary Mc Mahon
DONOUGH. Ireton’s men are everywhere
MÁIRE RUA. So what? (claps hands. A MAID ENTERS) Bring my blue velvet and that rich silver braid from the trunk in the upstairs room. Make haste! I have business in Limerick
MAID. At once
(MAID scampers out. MUSIC. LIGHTS Fade. SOUND of men laughing. LIGHTS up on IRETON & MEN carousing. A sudden Noise OSR)
IRETON. What is that noise?
1 st OFFICER. (glancing OSR) General, there is a female without
IRETON. (looking around) Did we send for women?
2 nd OFFICER. (coughs) Perhaps a harlot from last night? (Officers laugh)
1 st OFFICER. She is of noble appearance and richly attired (glancing OSR) and looks as if she means business
(ENTER MÁIRE RUA)
MÁIRE RUA. And I do mean business (bows slightly to Ireton) General
IRETON. Who are you?
MÁIRE RUA. I was Conor O’Brien’s wife yesterday and his widow today
IRETON. He fought us yesterday. Are you sure he is dead?
MÁIRE RUA. To prove it, I’ll marry any of your officers that asks me
IRETON. (amused) What a novel idea!
MÁIRE RUA. It is. And a proof of my loyalty to you
IRETON. (curious) Indeed?
MÁIRE RUA. Name the man and I will marry him (general hubbub)
19 IRETON. (gestures for silence) So, which of my jolly fellows will take to wife this splendid woman?
MÁIRE RUA. A loyal woman
COOPER. (coming forward after a pause) I will (general hubbub)
2 nd OFFICER. (aside) Brave man!
IRETON. (laughs) It seems Cooper will marry you (pauses) which means your request is granted
MÁIRE RUA. (curtseys) And I am thankful, General (holds out hand to Cooper) Come Husband! (ALL exchange amused looks)
(She leads Cooper OSR. Ireton laughs. As EXEUNT. LIGHTS DSR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. So, Máire Rua, the resourceful woman, saved her sons and lands.But (knowingly) did Cooper realise what kind of woman he had married?
(Noises OSL. ENTER COOPER, chased by MÁIRE RUA)
MÁIRE RUA. (shouting) Take that! (throws tankard) and that! (throws plate)
COOPER. (fearful) Good wife, I pray you be gentle
MÁIRE RUA. The only man who deserved that from me is dead
COOPER. Oh now, and was he such a fine one after all?
MÁIRE RUA. Another jibe like that and I’ll put paid to you (chases him OSL)
HURLER on the DITCH. And she did. They say that after a derogatory remark about her husband Conor O’Brien, she kicked Cooper to Kingdom come (shrugs) So they say (pauses) But Máire Rua lived to a ripe old age herself and (smiles) practical to the last with her affairs in order! (gets out paper) Listen to this (reads)
MÁIRE RUA. (OS) I bequeath my soul to God Almighty and my body to be interred in the Abbey of Ennis.To the Abbey and Convent of Quin the sum of five pounds sterling. To the Franciscan Convent in Limerick three pounds sterling, To the Abbey and Convent of Ennis five pounds sterling a year for five years to come on condition of a remembrance (pauses) To Doctor Thomas Gripha the sum of two pounds sterling, To Dr. William Carrigie one young grey horse, To Sarah Qualy a cow,and a heifer, a black pot, a griddle and a hutch (pauses) I leave all that I have sowed in the ground and all other goods that I am now possessed of to discharge
20 MÁIRE RUA. (OS) my debts and if that will not answer all I will leave it to God Almighty and to my son Donough O’Brien’s discretion.
[Her last will and testament, 7 th June 1686]
HURLER on the DITCH. Thanks to her discretion he survived to wed the beautiful Lucia Hamilton and lived till 1717 (aloud) Oh yes, Máire Rua was a woman of outstanding courage and practical to the end. A figure of many tales and legends, she is buried in Kilnasoolagh (As MUSIC Starts) The poet Brían O’Bríain called her noble, illustrious, impetuous and composed an elegy for hera rare thing for a woman (MUSIC in b/g for verse)
VOICE. Born at Bunratty, true heir of Brian of Banba
VOICE. You were the best of the women of Ireland In vigour, sense and kindness, In dignity, courage and bravery,
VOICE. Mainstay of hundreds making claims, Protecting this prostrate land, Ravaged by both Irish and English. Could anyone say I lie! [Elegy for Máire Rua by Brían O’Bríain, poet]
HURLER on the DITCH. They say Máire Rua died one windy night when her long red hair caught in the branches of a tree on the avenue of Carnelly House in Clarecastle. On windy nights her ghost appears –So they say!
(MUSIC. ENTER CHORUS who forms shape of three dolmens)
CHORUS. We are the stones of Clare
VOICE. Guardians of sea and shore
VOICE. Healers of the dying
VOICE. Protectors of the dead.
ALL. We are here since Time began
VOICE. The very bones of Clare
VOICE. We are here forever.
ALL. Wild Atlantic ocean at our face
VOICE. Between our feet rare flowers bloom
21 VOICE. Our belly is an altar
VOICE. Our arms a tomb for the dead shelter within our embrace.
ALL. We are the stones of Clare
VOICE. Beaten by wind Lashed by waves
ALL. But not submerged
VOICE. We will not go under We will endure
ALL. We will endure the wind, the wet and the wrath of those who would bring us down to their size Those who would diminish us (whisper) Let them try!
VOICE. We will not go under
ALL. We will endure (sl.pause) We are the stones of Clare
VOICE. Here since Time began
VOICE. Here forever
ALL. We are the very bones of Clare.
(MUSIC)
HURLER on the DITCH. There are many legends of how the heart of Tradraighe became known as Newmarket on Fergus or Cora Chaitilín meaning the weir of Cathleen (pauses) Some say it was after a holy woman from the locality (laughs) Of course in Clare holy women are two a penny Take the nine Murphys now from this very place. Ah! but that’s another story (confiding) According to some holy St. Catherine put a powerful curse on a local family (shivers) and if you have the heart for it, today you can walk to the very spot where the victim was buried (pauses) But others say Edward O’Brien named Newmarket on Fergus after his passion for racing (laughs) And Edward was a man who took his sport seriously (MUSIC low: Lord Inchiquin by Turlough O’Carolan) He even had a special turret built for the purpose– high on the hill at Dromoland. an elegant sight to behold!
(MUSIC louder. ENTER EDWARD with binoculars. HE mounts hill and delightedly peers SR., Sl, US. & DS. through binoculars. As MUSIC FADES, He laughs)
22 EDWARD. (glancing towards SR.) Lucius, Me Boy, Come on up here and see a sight for sore eyes (louder) Get your nose out of that law book! At once!
(ENTER LUCIUS SR)
LUCIUS. (sighs) What is it now Father?
EDWARD. (gestures widely) Take a look, My son (laughs) Wasn’t the designer deuced clever to make it octagonal? (gives him binoculars)
LUCIUS. (disinterested) Yes Father
EDWARD. Don’t you see, Lucius, Everywhere I look I can watch my horses (as Lucius uses binoculars) See that filly! Whoah! (points) Look there! (points) And there! Did you ever see such form? (points) Look at the speed of that mare
LUCIUS. The problem with your horses is they go too fast
EDWARD. (proud) Indeed! They are the talk of the county Clare and beyond!
LUCIUS. Father, you would do well to withdraw from the Ardsollus races
EDWARD. What? I give people a good run for their money
LUCIUS. (gives him binoculars) That’s just it. You always win
EDWARD. (laughs) Isn’t that the whole idea? (uses binoculars) Sport, Me boy. Remember life is for living, not learning. Really Lucius, you should get out more.
LUCIUS. But the other nags need to have a sporting chance. Surely as a sportsman, you’d agree with that?
EDWARD. Mmm. Well, since you put it that way
LUCIUS. Then you agree?
(Edward nods, smiles. They shake hands, go to opposite sides, face US)
HURLER on the DITCH. However, like many sportsmen, Edward enjoyed life and often (coughs) like some of us to excess (pauses) One day, ten years later
LUCIUS. (moves to him) Father, you must economise
EDWARD. (turns away) Don’t be tiresome Lucius. I enjoy the finer things in life
LUCIUS. Your debts keep mounting. It’s been like this for ten years!
23 EDWARD. (offended) ‘My sole amusement is my horses. I neither play cards or dice, keep neither whores or hounds’
LUCIUS. Sort this out now or become bankrupt
EDWARD. Oh! So now you are a self appointed judge! Hah! What does an attorney know about horses? Get back to Dublin to your wig and gown. I do declare they will be missing your merry face! (as LUCIUS EXITS SR, moves DS., looks out front) I should have been in my grave long since had it not been for the exercise and amusements my horses afforded me
(MUSIC.EDWARD EXITS SL. in a huff)
HURLER–ontheDITCH. Fathers and sons! What else could Lucius expect when he gave out stink to his old man? (aside) Not something any father here present would recommend (pauses) Mind you, Edward wasn’t to know that Lucius would predecease him by eleven months (sighs) Fathers and sons! (pauses) After Edward’s time there was no one to carry on his passion for racing so the turret was no longer used but still there today (Racing Sounds in b/g) high on the hill (eager) and wouldn’t it be great to have it back as good as new?
(MUSIC)
HURLER on the DITCH. Down through the years there was much talk about the Gold of Tradaree and the perplexing question of its whereabouts. Soon the world and his wife were out searching for the gold. But where was it hidden?
(ENTER FORTUNE TELLER with crystal ball, followed by SEÁN & AGNES)
FORTUNE TELLER. (gazing into crystal ball) I see a treasure
AGNES. The Gold of Tradaree?
SEÁN. (licks lips) Where? (shushes Agnes as She tries to speak) Where is it?
FORTUNE TELLER. Tis hidden at Carrigoran
SEÁN. Come on Agnes
AGNES. Wait! (as F.Teller gazes into crystal ball) What is it?
FORTUNE TELLER. Or maybe ‘tis at Tobar a ‘tae. On the roadside two hundred yards from the school gate (hesitates) or is it at Lisduff? Or maybe Ballymurtagh?
24 SEÁN. Why are you asking us? You’re the one with the crystal ball
FORTUNE TELLER. Then cross my palm with silver (Agnes urges Seán who sighs, gives silver. After biting on coins whispers) Tis at Lisduff
AGNES. Are you sure?
FORTUNE TELLER. Will I continue or not?
SEÁN. Go on so
FORTUNE TELLER. (uses crystal ball) I see a man getting out of a carriage in Lisduff. He is on his way from Limerick. Hush! He takes out a spade and a firkin
SEÁN. And?
FORTUNE TELLER. After sending the coachman to Newmarket on Fergus, the man enters Lios Dub. But when the coachman returns the man has only the spade
AGNES. So you mean the firkin contains the gold?
FORTUNE TELLER. (nods solemnly) And still lies hidden in the fort (holds out hand for money. As Seán hesitates) Will I continue or not?
SEÁN. (giving money) Go on
FORTUNE TELLER. (gazing at crystal ball) No I tell a lie
SEÁN. (aside) You can say that again
FORTUNE TELLER. Wait! I am certain the gold of Tradaree is in (definite) Ballycalla hidden in Moroney’s field
AGNES. I believe you (excited) Do you hear that Seán?
FORTUNE TELLER. And I tell you (soft) there’s a chalice hidden in Geogan’s hill
SEÁN. This is a complete waste of time. You can’t give one definite instance of the gold’s whereabouts
FORTUNE TELLER. Be like that and you’ll rue the day you crossed me (sweeps OSL with crystal ball)
AGNES. Now look what you’re after doing!
(ENTER THREE FARMERS)
1 st FARMER. Well where is it?
25 SEÁN. We have no idea
2 nd FARMER. And did she tell you nothing?
AGNES. She was showing us the whole picture when he went and aggravated her
3 rd FARMER. Ah sure your husband is notorious for his charm with the women
SEÁN. Listen if you’re so smart tell us where the gold is
3 rd FARMER. It’s buried under an ivy tree between Hegarty’s and Halpin’s land
2 nd FARMER. Everyone knows a large dog guards the gold hidden at Rionna ge in Drum guila
AGNES. No tis a cat that is the guardian
SEÁN. How can we determine the whereabouts of the gold?
2 nd FARMER. Tonight we’ll settle that question once and for all
SEÁN. How?
2 nd FARMER. Meet me here after dark
SEÁN. I’ll bring a crowd with me
2 nd FARMER. (nods) with picks and shovels –and carry a lamp
(EXEUNT. Snatch of MUSIC [Flight of the Bumble Bee]NIGHT. ENTER three MEN )
2 nd FARMER. Go over there and start digging (To Others as 3 MEN go SL and dig) Let ye light yer lamps (points SR) Over there with you to the bushes for shelter (To Men digging) Put yer backs into it Lads! The deeper ye dig, the sooner the treasure will be ours (Sound of buzzing bees) That’s it lads!
3 rd FARMER. (digs, then startled) Holy St. Patrick! I am destroyed with a bee sting
(Buzzing of bees. Cries of pain. MEN drop shovels, EXIT S.L, chased by bees)
SEÁN. What’s that noise? (lamps go out)
1 st FARMER. I’m not waiting around long enough to find out
(MUSIC. EXEUNT then LIGHTS on HURLER on the DITCH DSR)
26 HURLER on the DITCH. No luck on that occasion! And you need luck as well as talent for most things including sport! (practises) Ah! A little more practice with an poc fada and I’ll be on the team (practises) I’m getting there! Like most people from around these parts I’m a good strong worker but don’t like to be taken for a ride (pauses) like the workers at the estate of Sir John Scott Vandeleur at Rahaline (pauses) One roasting day in 1831 the men were out cutting and binding corn
(ENTER STEWARD & Tired WORKERS)
STEWARD. Come on! (waves away flies with his hat) Keep at it (drinks from mug)
1 st WORKER. (mutters to 2 nd Worker) Tis all right for him with his mug of drink
STEWARD. Keep shirking and Sir John will give you the boot
2 nd WORKER. (mutters) He couldn’t be worse than you
(ENTER JOHN SCOTT VANDELEUR, mopping brow with handkerchief)
STEWARD. Speak of the devil! Here’s the landlord
VANDELEUR. How is the work going?
STEWARD. The men are falling behind Sir but I’ll soon get them moving (shouts) Lads! Put your backs into it. Shift those bales!
VANDELEUR. (to Steward as Workers flag) Put out a bucket of water. Without a drink the men will be falling like flies in this heat
STEWARD. Yes Sir John
2nd WORKER. (to 1 st Worker) Vandeleur isn’t the worst of them
1st WORKER. Not like that slave driver of a steward (Steward goes SL. )
VANDELEUR. (Steward puts bucket SC.) Good (nods) On with the work (EXITS)
STEWARD. (as 1 st Worker takes water from bucket) You’re wasting time
1st WORKER. (gasping) I need a drink
STEWARD. (preventing 2nd Worker taking water from bucket) Get back.
2nd WORKER. Sir John said we could
STEWARD. (sneers) But the landlord’s not here now
27 1st WORKER. (to 2 nd & 3 rd Workers) ) If he keeps this up I swear to God I’ll
STEWARD. (to 3rd Worker) Where do you think you’re going?
3rd WORKER. For water
STEWARD. Get back (preventing him taking water) Are you deaf?
3rd WORKER. (breathless) No. But I’m gasping
STEWARD. (as 1st Worker takes drink) You’re going to the bucket too often (kicks over bucket. A chord of MUSIC) Hah! Let that be a lesson to ye! (EXITS)
2nd WORKER. He deserves to get what’s coming to him
1 st WORKER. (stares at Others) and without delay!
(LIGHTS change to Night. Hoot of an OWL)
1 st WORKER. (as They gather SC.) Are we all agreed?
2 nd & 3 rd WORKERS. We are
1 st WORKER. Put your names in the hat. The one whose name is picked will do the job (shakes hat, then picks out a piece of paper, pauses, shows it to Others)
3 rd WORKER. (after glancing at Others) I know what to do (hesitates)
1 st WORKER. No time like the present
2 nd WORKER. He won’t be expecting you at this time of night
1 st WORKER. (as 3 rd Worker EXITS SL.) There’s no other way
2nd WORKER. He had it coming to him
(OSL. Steward yells ‘Help,Help!’ Workers EXIT SR. Fade LIGHTS. A Scream OSL. LIGHTS as for DAY. ENTER VANDELEUR & CRAIG)
VANDELEUR. Mr.Craig, I require a new steward.Due to a (coughs) misadventure
CRAIG. Sir John, I’m your man. With this new cooperative your estate at Rahaline will be the envy of Europe
VANDELEUR. One of my priorities is to provide housing for the workforce
28 CRAIG. That can be set up. And by including members in weekly general meetings every man and woman will want prosperity and increased production We’ll use the best means available like (smiles) machinery. The way of the future!
VANDELEUR (excited) Machinery! But won’t that be expensive?
CRAIG. All down to sound financial management. I have a good head for figures
VANDELEUR. What about troublemakers?
CRAIG. Mmmm. As a student of phrenology, I can tell a lot about a man from his skull (sighs) I anticipate some difficulty in managing large headed menat least in the basilar region (Vandeleur frowns) But we’ll get round that problem. Remember everyone will be busy working (smiles) with equal rights, up to date apparatus, and boys and girls learning a useful trade as well as agriculture and gardening
VANDELEUR. (frowns) Then there are the freeloaders
CRAIG. Cure them like you tame wild elephants (as Vandeleur laughs) It’s easy. If the men are digging and you put an idler between two industrious workers he’ll keep up with them or be laughed at (grins) and no man worth his salt can bear that
VANDELEUR. True
CRAIG. Robert Owen’s vision of all round development stresses the value of joint production, joint distribution and joint consumption
VANDELEUR. I heard him speak in Dublin. Most impressive
CRAIG. (keen) Socialism is no longer a theory of utopia but a real tangible reality
VANDELEUR. But can we get it to work?
CRAIG. Now if all the workers shared in the profits of the estate
VANDELEUR. Hmm?
CRAIG. (chirpy) And they let you be the estate treasurer.
VANDELEUR. (approving) Mmm (smiles) You have the job!
(They go SR. confer, then turn as Commune Members ENTER SL. Curious whispers)
VANDELEUR. We are gathered here on the 7 th November 1831 to decide who’ll be admitted to the coop. Every adult has a vote (murmurs) If fifty per cent vote against someone then, as landlord, I’ll have to reject that person who’ll be evicted
29 CRAIG. (amid murmurs) All members are being voted on, including myself. Only the landlord will be exempt
VANDELEUR. The business of the commune will be managed by a committee, who meet every evening to decide who will do what the next day
1 st WOMAN. What committee?
VANDELEUR. Myself as chairman, and as treasurer and secretary (indicates Craig) Mr. Craig from Manchester
CRAIG. My role is mainly one of ‘helping’ but I won’t be voting
1 st MAN. (aside) Where’s the catch?
2 nd MAN. (aside) There isn’t one
CRAIG. As president, Sir John automatically selects three of the nine officers. All others are voted by male and female adults in the coop
1st WOMAN. (aside to 2nd Woman) There you are now. I’ll vote for you
VANDELEUR. There are three members for agriculture and three for trades and manufactures.
1 st MAN. What about complaints?
CRAIG. Part of the committee’s job is to deal with any
VANDELEUR. Now, are we ready to hold the ballot? (murmurs of assent)
1 st WOMAN. (aside) sounds too good to be true
2 nd WOMAN. (aside) Yes. Like a brave new world
(MUSIC as LIGHTS Fade. EXEUNT. ENTER VANDELEUR, WILLIAM SMITH O’BRIEN, SIR EDWARD O’BRIEN & FARMERS. LIGHTS. Male chatter)
WILLIAM. This is the first meeting of the Newmarket on Fergus Farming Society on the Dec 29 th 1831 with myself, William Smith O’Brien in the chair (indicating) Sir Edward O’Brien as President and (indicating) Sir John Scott Vandeleur representing the Rahaline Commune
VANDELEUR. When Mr. Edward Craig and I met with the workforce on my estate at Rahaline no one was turned down for membership of the coop
1 st FARMER. That was a smart move. Starting with a complete vote of confidence
30 2 nd FARMER. Forcing any dissenters to knuckle down
EDWARD O’B. And accept the new order
WILLIAM. I’m with O’Connell on this. He approves of these Owenite communes
EDWARD O’B. William, what he actually said was that Owen may do some good
WILLIAM. Shall we continue?
(as ALL confer fade LIGHTS. MUSIC. LIGHTS. Sounds of revelry. VANDELEUR, PERCY & JAMES play cards and drink port.)
PERCY. (surprised) I hear you’ve taken to machinery down in Clare
VANDELEUR. Indeed Percy (proud) the first reaping machine in the country invented and made by Mr. Mann of Kelso in Scotland
JAMES. Good lord! What will the Scots invent next?
VANDELEUR. We sent our mechanic over there to watch the works progress and accompany the machine back here
PERCY. Declare John you seldom do things by halves! Pass the port James
JAMES. (passes port) But do prosperity and mechanised manufacturing go together?
VANDELEUR. Machinery will save taking produce to market 12 miles off, and let people clothe themselves, pay rent & interest of money out of their manufactures
PERCY. (laughing) I wouldn’t be so optimistic if I were you (as They look surprised) It’s self evident (laughs) Gentleman, why do we play at cards? (drinks) For diversion? (They laugh) And what else?
JAMES. Declare you have me foxed Percy!
VANDELEUR. (picking up his winnings) Why money of course!
PERCY. Exactly! So by introducing machinery for shortening labour you’ll only manage to lessen wages and (wags finger) so deprive working men of employment (as Vandeleur nods) Aha! (to James) What did I tell you?
VANDELEUR. (interrupts) What you say is true except in a cooperative society like ours in Rahaline composed of people sharing a common background
JAMES. (drinks) Mmm. And I suppose if you treat the peasantry well they won’t support nationalist agitators
31 PERCY. (pouring port) But is your coop self sufficient?
VANDELEUR. That will come
PERCY. (laughs) Meanwhile (pointing at him) you back the whole enterprise
VANDELEUR. (shrugs) Who else? (smiles) It’s your deal Percy
PERCY. (dealing cards) You’d better keep winning (as Vandeleur laughs) Otherwise the whole house of cards could come falling down about your ears
VANDELEUR. Pass the port (drinks) I’m certain this new venture will succeed
PERCY. Upon my soul, I’ll take a wager on that!
VANDELEUR. Done! (raises glass) Gentlemen, I swear Rahaline will be an enormous success (drinks)
(Laughter. MUSIC. EXEUNT. CROSSFADE LIGHTS to DSR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. And it was! The Rahaline Commune was even talked of in the House of Commons
SPEAKER of the House. (OS. amid hubbub) Order ! Order!
1 st MP. (As He ENTERS SL with 2 nd MP) How can you run dances without gambling or drink?
2 nd MP. I hear there’s a place in Ireland called Rahaline where gambling is prohibited and two dances a week are held without any drink!
1 st MP. (laughs) Well well! Perhaps it’s time we started learning from the Irish!
(As EXEUNT chatting. MUSIC. ENTER CRAIG & WORKERS)
CRAIG. These are labour notes (handing notes) You can exchange them for goods at community stores
1 st FATHER. We want real money not bits of paper
CRAIG. Simply take this note to your tailor, shoemaker or hatter in the neighbourhood. Remember no work, no record & therefore no payment. The daily rate is eight pence for men, five pence for women.
1st MOTHER. (to 2nd Mother)With fixed prices for food, where else could you get such value?
32 2nd MOTHER. And have equal rights. And votes. Like when I voted to keep our children away from the school after the teacher, Mrs O’Dea, married an outsider
3rd MOTHER. And look where that got us. With a Protestant in charge we had to close the school. Leaving our children with no education.
1st MOTHER. Mrs. Craig, like her husband, wants only the best for our children. She sent a gracious letter to the school
3rd MOTHER. How do you know it was gracious? Did you read it?
1st MOTHER. How could I? I don’t have the learning (feisty) but my children will
2nd MOTHER. Count your blessings. Where else are people so well looked after that the sick fund is no longer needed?
3rd MOTHER. True for you! Other parts of the country are stricken but not here
1st MOTHER. Thanks to Sean Vandeleur
(WORKERS EXIT chatting, LIGHTS on Vandeleur, Percy & James play cards)
PERCY. (scooping up his winnings) Ah! Victorious again!
VANDELEUR. Deuce take that knave of diamonds!
JAMES. John, if you spent more time in Dublin you’d start winning again (drinks) Speaking of Clare, how are all ‘those happy people’ at Rahaline?
VANDELEUR. Like busy bees. They work a spartan life. Daybreak to Dusk in winter. 6.am to 6.pm in summer (pleased) Crops of wheat, barley, oats, potatoes, turnips (grins) and with pigs, cattle, sheep horses
PERCY. (interrupting) Speaking of horses, my cousin who was hunting down your way told me your fellows from the copoperative closed a farmyard gate
JAMES. (amazed) During the hunt? (Percy nods) Good lord!
PERCY. I declare my cousin never heard the like of it before! And when he complained roundly
JAMES. Proper order too!
PERCY. The cheeky labourers talked about (sneers) ‘young crops’ and ‘damaged fences’
33 VANDELEUR. My workers take a great interest in their work and the estate (as Percy deals cards) And Gentlemen, I feel my luck is about to change (grimaces) otherwise it’s another visit to my banker
PERCY. (drinks) You don’t say the bank refused you again?
VANDELEUR. Afraid so (drinks)
JAMES. How ridiculous! Why can’t one’s banker realise he only exists to make money available for one’s urgent needs?
PERCY. (laughs) Like gambling
VANDELEUR. If things don’t improve I’ll have to sell the estate
JAMES. (passing the port) Drink up!
(MUSIC. EXEUNT. CROSSFADE LIGHTS.ENTER CRAIG pursued by WORKERS)
CRAIG. (shakes head) The landlord is declared bankrupt (sighs) and I’m afraid the agreement between Sir John and the members is legally worthless
1 st FATHER. We’ll be evicted
1 st MOTHER. But we paid our rent
2 nd FATHER. Ruin has come upon us
CRAIG. Be still now and listen. Am I not a fair man?
1 st FATHER. Up until now
CRAIG. (amid grumbling) Remember we are all labouring capitalists
2 nd MOTHER. But we have no money
2 nd FATHER. And the landlord maintains ownership
CRAIG. Give me your labour notes (then counting) All the members’ notes come to £25. I’ll give you cash for these notes. Now what could be fairer than that?
1 st MOTHER. (amid grumbles) Better than what we got before for our work
CRAIG. Eventually you could save the money and buy Vandeleur out
1 st FATHER. (turns away) Ohone, ohone! SeanVandeleur, why did you go from us?
2 nd FATHER. (turns away) Why did you leave us?
34 2 nd MOTHER. (turns away) Why have you left your own Rahaline?
HURLER on the DITCH. So the most successful Owenite commune came to an end. Afterwards sadly the beautiful house at Rahaline was destroyed by fire
. (MUSIC. WEAVERS DANCE. As MUSIC fades, WEAVERS gather SC.)
HURLER on the DITCH. But the spirit of enterprise here in the flax growing area of Tradaree kept on flourishing – even during the Famine
1 st WEAVER. Listen! Isn’t Mary O’Brien, wife to Sir Edward after starting a sewing school for ladies!
2 nd WEAVER. That’s not all. Isn’t a ship bearing grain and intended for the garrison wrecked on a reef at Rhinanna!
3 rd WEAVER. All we have to do is cut the rope and bring supplies up the river to feed people! [Tringlosss Cargo of maize carted to Rahaline by Halpin family]
1 st WEAVER. What are we waiting for?
2 nd WEAVER. (at the Sound of horse hooves) Tis the ghost of Máire Rua!
1st WEAVER. Now that’s one lady who wouldn’t want us to go hungry (laughter)
(EXEUNT to sound of horse hooves. MUSIC as Crossfade LIGHTS to DSR.)
HURLER on the DITCH. One of the greatest men from around these parts was born at Dromoland castle in 1803 William Smith O’Brien (proud) an exceptionally brave politician whose Commons campaign for ‘justice’ for Ireland prefigured the tactics of Parnell
(Cheering OS. ENTER WILLIAM SMITH O’BRIEN chatting with SUPPORTERS)
1 st SUPPORTER. William, now that you’re MP for Co. Limerick you’ll have more influence in Westminster
WILLIAM. I know the British parliament can give good government in Ireland
2 nd SUPPORTER. You believed that when you became MP for Ennis. I hope your faith is not misplaced
WILLIAM. (laughs) Faith without good works is dead so I intend to keep working for Clare and the country
35 2 nd SUPPORTER. Bravo! I put my money on you
1 st SUPPORTER. And the people are behind you. By helping to set up The Newmarket on Fergus Farming Society you’ve shown where your heart is
WILLIAM. But what if Irish members are wasting their time at Westminster?
1 st SUPPORTER. William, you’re not like other members (as William laughs) You have the courage to go into the lion’s den again
2 nd SUPPORTER. And again
WILLIAM. And be despised for my pains!
1 st SUPPORTER. Your extraordinary Commons campaign will win the day
2 nd SUPPORTER. We know you have the brains, wit and insight for grasping the truth of any situation
1 st SUPPORTER. You can see into the heart of things
WILLIAM. Gentlemen you flatter me but rest assured I’ll use every trick in the book (laughs)without breaking the law of course to secure liberal reform (EXITS)
1 st SUPPORTER. (looking after him) It breaks my heart to see him despised by men who are his inferiors and not just the English! (irate) Some people calling themselves nationalists don’t share his idea that we should govern ourselves
2 nd SUPPORTER. Remember O’Connell will not condone the use of force
1 st SUPPORTER. Don’t forget William is his loyal deputy
2 nd SUPPORTER. For the moment! Mark my words
1 st SUPPORTER. What do you mean?
2 nd SUPPORTER. If they disagree, they’ll be rivals before the year is out.
HURLER on the DITCH. And they were! After William joined the Young Irelanders, he led a rebellion in 1848 at Ballingarry (noises of skirmish offstage) Alas! doomed to failure. With the Famine the timing couldn’t have been worse
(ENTER CROWD. Anxious chatter. ENTER NEWSBOY ringing a bell)
NEWSBOY. Rebel Leaders Found Guility of High Treason and Sentenced to Death (Crowd reacts) In Clonmel gaol Smith O’Brien and Meagher write their names in blood
36 (ENTER SUPPORTERS)
1 st SUPPORTER. (holds out paper) Here, sign the petition
NEWSBOY. I will (signs)
2 nd SUPPORTER. (as OTHERS sign) We’re collecting signatures from all over Ireland, Liverpool, Manchester and other parts of England
NEWSBOY. I’ll spread the word (moving towards exit) Clemency for rebel leaders! (EXITS ringing bell)
HURLER on the DITCH. After 80,000 signatures were collected the death sentences were commuted and the rebel leaders sent to Van Diemen’s Land [Tasmania] William wept on bidding farewell to his family (pauses) After seven years in exile he was pardoned and did return to Ireland. He died in 1864
(MUSIC)
HURLER on the DITCH. In 1854, ten years before the death of William Smith O’Brien, workmen began building the new railway line between Ennis & Limerick (pauses)And at the home of a railway worker (shivers) one bitterly cold March day
BRÍD. Michael McNamara will you get out from under my feet, you lazy lump!
MICHAEL. (coughs) I have a fever
BRÍD. (laughs) Off with you so to Fenloe and let you lay your hot forehead against the plague stone and wait for the cure
MICHAEL. I’m certain I’m catching something
BRÍD. A case of work shyness! If you won’t dig that railway, others will (muses) Wouldn’t it be grand to climb up onto the train and sit in comfort like a lady all the way from Ennis to Limerick? (eager) We could ask Nora to come with us from Sixmilebridge
MICHAEL. (coughing) I’m not myself at all at all
BRÍD. Lord knows it couldn’t be your eyesight. Amn’t I weary bringing back bottles of holy water, my knees worn out traipsing to all the holy wells in Clare?
MICHAEL. Ah Bríd! Don’t be at me when I am sick
BRÍD. I’ll get you a sup of buttermilk so from the dairy
MICHAEL. That would be grand
37 (She EXITS. He takes out bracelet from pocket, rubs it. ENTER GHOST of PANGUR BÁN, wearing golden neck collar and bracelets on his paws)
MICHAEL. (blessing himself) Saints Above! (Pangúr Bán dances around stage, then hides as REENTER BRÍD with cup)
BRÍD. You look as if you’d seen a ghost!
MICHAEL. (coughs) I told you I’m not myself
BRÍD. (giving him cup) Drink that and then get up off your behind. Tis many a man would give his eye teeth to be working on the railway
MICHAEL. That March wind would cut you.
BRÍD. Tisn’t the only thing! My tongue will cut you with such a lashing that you’ll wish you were out in the March wind (piece of gold falls) What’s that?
MICHAEL. (coughs) Nothing
BRÍD. Listen, I know nothing when I see it (accusing) It fell from your pocket
MICHAEL. Something I came across it while I was digging with my spade
BRÍD. Give it here (examining it) Tis goldy
MICHAEL. I scraped it when I saw it glinting in the sun
BRÍD. (frowning) It could be part of a treasure find (with growing wonder) The Gold of Tradaree! (whispers) Is there more? (He nods) What did you do with it?
MICHAEL. (embarrassed) I buried it
BRÍD. Well now aren’t you the Smart Alec entirely!
MICHAEL. Whisht Woman! (As she protests, points SL.)
BRÍD. What are you gawking at? (GHOST of Pangur dances) Lord Almighty! (blesses herself) If it isn’t the cat that guards the Hidden Gold! (whispers) Put this back where you got it and find the rest of the treasure (holds out gold piece)
MICHAEL. (taking gold piece) I’ll get moving so
(Ghost of Pangur snatches gold and dances, EXITS. BOTH look after Ghost)
BOTH. (exchange glances) The Clare railways will be the talk of the country!
38 HURLER on the DITCH. And they were!
(MUSIC: Part of ‘Are ye right there Michael are you right?‘ [Percy French] As MUSIC fades ENTER PEADAR reading newspaper)
HURLER on the DITCH. And twasn’t the only thing that was the talk of the county. One January day in 1878
PEADAR. (reads, then) Well if that isn’t the most peculiar class of thing! (calls OSL.) Come out here Stasia!
STASIA. (OS.) I’m washing my feet. Lord knows you’re so mean with the few sods of turf on the fire I’ve to keep my feet in hot water to get the circulation going
PEADAR. (chortles) Not for long more. Listen here to the Munster News! (reads) Over in Lisdoonvarna, there are startling rumours of an oil well. A baker called Parrick Mc Invoy was the finder. When workmen building his new home struck shelving rock while sinking the foundation of a drain, a copious flow of oil gushed forth resembling paraffin in smell & colour. When it ignited it gave forth a bright light. O’Neill, driver of the mail car brought the account to Ennis
STASIA. (offstage) And?
PEADAR. And nothing! Lord God if neither holy wells nor oil wells will improve your humour then there’s no hope left for any of us (moves towards exit)
STASIA. Where are you off to?
PEADAR. Hah! Wouldn’t you like to know? (EXITS to the strains of Christy Moore singing a snatch of ‘Lisdoonvarna’)
HURLER on the DITCH. Oh now, the people from around these parts can’t stop flourishing. Like the nine Murphys from Newmarket on Fergus. All became nuns and off with them to the missions. Seventy year old Mother Xavier even got a medal from King George for services to education in India! (laughs) And it’s not all decorum here either. There was Johnny Patterson, circus performer of distinction, and a composer of note
(MUSIC. Part of ‘ The garden where the praties grow’[Johnny Patterson] As MUSIC fades ENTER TEACHER & SCHOOLGIRLS)
HURLER on the DITCH. With so much talent in the locality no wonder it was difficult to find the best pupil of 1928
TEACHER. Now Girls, who can tell me about Quin? (points) Rose McNamara
39 ROSE. Quin was anciently called Quint or Quinchy. An abbey was founded in about 1250 but consumed by fire in 1278. The river Quin abounds with fine eels
TEACHER. Good. Now (glances around) Gertie Hickey, name the rivers of Clare
GERTIE. River Quin
TEACHER (prompting) that flows into the …?
GERTIE. Fergus
TEACHER (nods) that flows into the (points to MAY) May Flannery
MAY. Shannon, the father of rivers
TEACHER. Never forget Girls where you come from. To learn about the world you must first learn about your own place
ALL. Yes Teacher
TEACHER. Rose, can you name the prominent Dalcassian families?
ROSE. The O’Briens, whose ancestor was Brian Boru, the McNamaras who are said to be descended from a mermaid (General giggles) and the Mc Mahons
(Teacher nods, turns to blackboard. Sound of horse hooves. Girls exchange glances)
LUCY. (Rises, whispers) Tis the ghost of Márie Rua (glances around fearfully)
TEACHER (suddenly turns) Lucy McNamara from the corner house! How dare you distract other pupils with your whispers? Sit down at once! (points) Nancy Callinan tell me about the parish of Newmarket on Fergus
NANCY. The parish of Newmarket on Fergus is a union of seven ancient parishes; Bunratty, Fenloe, Kilnasoolagh, Drumline, Clongloghan, Kilconry (hesitates)
TEACHER. And? (hands shoot up) Yes Josie Clune
JOSIE. Kilmaleery
TEACHER. (sighs) Yes. The ancient parish of Tradaree was associated with the extensive parish Newmarket on Fergus which stretches from (points to Sadie)
SADIE. Bunratty bridge to Latoon bridge
TEACHER. Good, Sadie O’Flanagan. And where did the name Trad come from?
40 SADIE. A Milesian leader called Cormac Cas married the daughter of Oisin, son of Finn Mac Cumhaill. A descendant of Cormac’s, Lugaidh Meann expelled the Fir Bolg from Clare. His son Conal Eachluaith ‘of the swift steeds’ had a son, Cas, forebear of the Dal gCas. Eldest son of Cas was Bnlod from whom Brian Boru is descended. The 12 th son of Cas was Lugaidh Delbaeth, whose daughter married Trad, the son of Tossach, a chieftain & druid. Trad, father of a large family but with no wealth was given a large tract of land later to be known as Tradaree
TEACHER. Are you listening Girls? That’s the kind of quick answer I want and what I’d expect from the best pupil. Now repeat after me. The rivers of Clare
(Sadie smirks. Girls react. A School BELL goes. ALL disperse.)
HURLER on the DITCH. Over the years the spirit of enterprise from Rahaline and Famine times was kept going here by people like Dr. Brendan O’Regan of Cora Chaitilín and by Fr. Harry Bohan providing inspiration for revival in Clare. Today this same spirit is flourishing and (pauses) in the year of Our Lord 1996, The Community Enterprise Award goes to (opens gold envelope, reads) Newmarket on Fergus Obair for clearsightedness and farsightedness
(ENTER OBAIR REPS. who receive award. Applause)
CHORUS. Obair obair, make it work
VOICE. Make it work Cora Chaitilín
ALL. Obair, obair, Make it work We can work And we can play
HURLER on the DITCH. (practising) And where would anywhere be without sport? (practising) Listen, all I need is just a tiny bit more practice with an poc fada to become another Paddy MacNamara Iron Man of Hurling!
(ENTER TWO HURLERS SR. & SL)
1 st HURLER. We’re no strangers to victory (gestures OSL)
HURLER on the DITCH. Don’t I know! (looks OSL) Bring on yer hurleys Lads! (ENTER HURLERS OSL victorious) The Mooncoin Cup! 1915 (cheers)
2 nd HURLER. This game will sift the men from the boys
HURLER on the DITCH. And it did! (looks OSR) Rise up Cora Chaitilín! (as HURLERS ENTER SR,) 1968! ‘A brilliant and stouthearted Newmarket on Fergus
41 HURLER on the DITCH team has beaten the Christy Ring trained famous Glen Rovers in a game (gleeful) that had everything! (cheers)
1 st & 2 nd HURLERS. Cora Chaitilín go brea! Go brea! Bring on yer hurleys Lads!
HURLER on the DITCH. (as ENTER SR. & SL. HURLERS victorious) 1978! Newmarket on Fergus are winners of their 21 st Senior Hurling Crown (cheers) Cora Chaitilín so fine and fair! (points) Anthony Daly former captain now manager of Senior Hurling, will Clare be champions again?
ANTHONY DALY. Clare are no longer the whipping boys of Munster hurling (pauses) Bring on yer hurleys Lads!
(HURLERS Movement Sequence. EXEUNT. MUSIC. ENTER BRENDAN & AISLING)
BRENDAN. Are you going on the march?
AISLING. I wouldn’t miss it
BRENDAN. Come on so to The Weaver’s Inn (moves, turns) Where’s Boumi?
(ENTER BOUMI [Student from Overseas] with travel bag)
BRENDAN. Speak of the devil
BOUMI. (startled) Devil! (glances around furtively) Where?
AISLING. Boumi, it’s all right. Just a figure of speech
BRENDAN. (as Boumi sighs with relief) Sorry! Didn’t mean to scare you
AISLING. How is your family research going?
BOUMI. Go mait (to surprised looks) My mother taught me a few words of Irish when she talked of her ancestors who came from here
BRENDAN. Ah come on now Boumi! They weren’t really from Newmarket on Fergus were they?
BOUMI. (airily) Her people were McNamaras from somewhere around here (showing off) could be the Barony of Thomond, where there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang him, nor earth enough to bury him
BRENDAN. (impressed) Wow! How did you know that?
BOUMI. The local studies library. Full of secrets. You should try it Brendan
42 BRENDAN. (laughs) Listen here you. Don’t forget I was born here!
(ENTER ANN, TOM, MÁIRE with card and gift for Boumi, sing ‘Happy Birthday’)
BOUMI. (surprised) Oh! (opens box) Thank you (hugs Students) What a cool present! It reminds me of the gold I saw in the National Museum
BRENDAN. And it all came from Mooghaun up the road from here
BOUMI. (laughs) Yes Brendan, (showing off) one hundred and thirty seven bracelets, six collars, several neck rings and other objects the largest haul of gold in Ireland two hundred gold artefacts found at the edge of Mooghaun lake, one kilometre north/east of the Bronze age hill fort (to Aisling) You know when I saw those ancient earring I couldn’t help wondering who wore them
AISLING. (hearing Squawking of Birds, looks up) Do you believe in ghosts?
BOUMI. Of course. Where I come from the spirit world is closely linked to us
(PANGUR BÁN ENTERS and dances around the stage)
MÁIRE. It’s the cat that used guard the gold!
BOUMI. (as Pangur Bán gives her a heart of gold) Oh! (strokes cat who purrs) Ar mhaite leis féin dheinneann an cat crónán
TOM. Yeh ‘tis for its own good that a cat purrs (grins) Boumi, your Irish is really coming on
BOUMI. Thanks to all of you (Ghost miaous) Hold on (bends down listens )
ANN. (after exchanging curious glances with Others)What’s all that about?
BOUMI. (turns to Them) A heart of gold burns brighter than fire
TOM. True (as Ghost dances D,S, turns ,miaous.) Look! The cat wants us to follow
BRENDAN. Before we set off don’t we have to do something? (ANN nods)
(ALL move SR. and stand in line as ENTER OCCULIST from Varden’s pharmacy)
OCCULIST. Who’s first? (as They hesitate) Come on, I haven’t got all day
BRENDAN. (as Boumi hesitates) Go on! Sure aren’t you one of us now?
43 OCCULIST. (after testing Boumi) Perfect! Next please! (after testing ALL) All in order! (packs his bag).
HURLER on the DITCH. All perfect! (laughs) And why wouldn’t they be? The clearsighted and farsighted people of Newmarket on Fergus!
TOM. (to Occulist) Will you join us in the Weaver’s Inn?
OCCULIST. (shakes head) Sorry! I’m off to catch the train from Ennis. They need their eyes tested in Limerick (EXITS SR.)
BOUMI. Do you think Clare will win the All Ireland?
TOM. Of course! Anyway how well up on hurling are you?
BOUMI. Anthony Daly has a panel of thirty five players all bursting for games, and like Harry Bohan, who has a heart of gold (Tom nods) doesn’t know the meaning of the word ‘negative’ Oh! and Clare is the best team in the country
BRENDAN. If we’re not careful Boumi, you’ll be playing for us yet! (Laughter)
HURLER on the DITCH. Today the Gold of Tradaree is displayed at the National Museum (smiles) but here in Clare our gold is the heart of the county
(ENTER CHORUS who gathers in semicircle US)
CHORUS. We are the People of Clare.Tall as our noble trees. Strong as our rivers.
VOICE. We will endure. Like the stones of Clare. Here since time began. We are the very bones of Clare
ALL. The golden heart of Ireland
HURLER on the DITCH. (as ALL gather SC.) My tale is nearly done except for one thing (general murmurs) Who‘s to lead the March from Tradaree?
BOUMI. (after a pause)Why don’t we ask Chief O’Brien?
AISLING. (amid murmurs of approval) Good idea
(MUSIC. ENTER CHIEF O’BRIEN with Entourage)
HURLER on the DITCH. Conor, Chief of the O’Briens! As a true descendant of Brian Boru will you lead the March?
44 CHIEF O’BRIEN. I will (cheers) A thousand years ago, our champion Brian Boru became High King of Ireland (cheers) Today let us march from Tradaree to become champions of Ireland!
(ENTER HURLERS through Audience, form guard of honour at centre aisle)
HURLERS. (as They ENTER) We are the champions! Going for the Gold!
VOICE. Beyond the quarter final Beyond the semi final Beyond the final Beyond our dreams!
CHORUS. Hurlers of Clare! Bring back the Cup! Come on the Banner! Hurlers of Clare! Champions of Ireland!
1 st HURLER. (to Hurler on the Ditch) Come on if you want to make the team!
HURLER on the DITCH. Lord Almighty if that isn’t the best news ever! (aside) Just shows you what practice can do! By the way if anyone asks you about Cora Chaitilín, tell them everything you know. Just remember you heard it here first!
(He joins guard of honour. Sound of horse hooves. ENTER Máire Rua who joins Chief O’ Brien DSC. MUSIC as EXEUNT in procession under crossed hurleys led by Chief O’Brien & Máire Rua with Pangur Bán bringing up the rear)
(END of PLAY)
45 Local and other source material proved invaluable in establishing historical and topographical details for the play, notably:
The History & Topography of the County of Clare : from the earliest times to the beginning of the 18th century , Frost, James, 1973, printed for the Author by Sealy, Bryers & Walker, Middle Abbey St., Dublin
Dal gCais, Vol 1: Clare,its people & culture/edited by Harry Hughes, 1975, printed by Colm Hayes, Ennistymon Printing Works
Máire Rua Lady of Leamaneh, Mac Neill, Máire [edited by Maureen Murphy] 1990, Ballinakella Press, Whitegate, Co. Clare
Rahaline: An Irish Owenite Community 18311833, Geoghan, Vincent,1991, published in the journal ‘International Review of Social History’ xxxvi (1991) pp.377411
Kilnasoolagh Church, Newmarket on Fergus, an appreciation/Bailey,Edwin R.,1992, published by Edwin R. Bailey
William Smith O’Brien, Richard Harke Davis, Lilliput Press,1998,
Newmarket on Fergus, Arthur, Brendan P., 1995, Nenagh Guardian Ltd.
The Other Clare: Vol 19 1995/Shannon (Vol 20 Newmarket) 1995, Archeological & Historical Society
Irish Monasticism, Fr. John Ryan, S.J., Shannon: Irish University Press, 1972 (1st edition reprinted)
1000 Years of 1rish Poetry, edited by Kathleen Hoagland, 1962, The Universal Library, Grosset & Dunlap, New York
Special Thanks
Siobhán Mulcahy, Arts Officer, Clare. Co. Council Newmarket on Fergus Obair Newmarket on Fergus Library, Co. Clare Local Studies Library, Ennis De Valera Library, Mill Rd. Ennis Department of Folklore, University College, Dublin The National Museum, Kildare St., Dublin Grania R.Weir, Whitegate, Co. Clare Máire Ní Ghruagáin, Cora Chaitilín, Co. an Clár Marian O’Leary Fogarty Dr. Gerhardt Gallagher, Forestry Consultant
46