Drogheda's streets are about to come alive with a unique theatrical experience, as the Droichead Youth Theatre presents its latest creation, Dear Drogheda. This promenade theatre performance, taking place on August 15th and 16th, invites audiences to embark on a journey through the heart of the town, revealing hidden stories and a fresh perspective on Drogheda's rich history and culture.
The performance, directed by Christina Matthews, is a collaboration between the young members of the Droichead Youth Theatre and local historians, artists, activists, and storytellers. Over the summer intensive programme, the young performers delved into the town's past, uncovering forgotten histories, family memories, myths, and personal connections. The result is a captivating performance that blends humour, memory, mystery, and imagination, all inspired by the town's people, places, and history.
One of the key aspects of Dear Drogheda is its site-specific nature. Audience groups will be guided through the town, encountering performances in six different locations. These scenes are not just staged performances but also moments of storytelling and interaction, bringing the town's familiar streets to life. The performances will take place beneath ancient arches, beside public artworks, and in spaces that people often pass by without a second glance.
The production is a celebration of Drogheda and its people, as producer Annie Hoey explains. "Dear Drogheda is a celebration of this town and the people who make it what it is," she says. "Our young people have spent the summer listening to stories, asking questions, and looking at familiar places in their town with fresh eyes. The result is a performance that is funny, moving, and full of the heart of the young people who wrote it. We hope audiences leave seeing Drogheda a little differently, along with thinking about what possible future our town could have."
Dear Drogheda offers a unique opportunity for audiences to slow down and appreciate their surroundings. It encourages people to take a fresh look at their town and discover the stories that can emerge from the places they pass every day. Whether you're a lifelong resident or visiting Drogheda for the first time, this performance is an invitation to explore the town's rich past, vibrant present, and boundless capacity for future rejuvenation.
The performance times are 11:00 am, 11:15 am, 11:30 am, 2:00 pm, 2:15 pm, and 2:30 pm, and the starting point is Barlow House. The performance lasts approximately 55 minutes and is fully guided throughout. Dear Drogheda is the latest original production from Droichead Youth Theatre, showcasing their commitment to creating ambitious, site-specific work that engages and inspires audiences.
This theatrical experience is a testament to the power of storytelling and community engagement. It highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating local history and culture, while also encouraging a fresh perspective on familiar surroundings. Dear Drogheda is a must-see for anyone interested in immersive theatre, local history, and the transformative power of art.
