The rebel hero looks back

LIME Tree Theatre’s first play of the season is ‘Guerilla Days in Ireland’, “a thrilling firsthand account of the struggle for independence in County Cork, the Rebel County. Having survived World War 1 where he fought on the British side, Tom Barry returns to Ireland and after a run-in with local British Troops in Bandon joins the Irish Volunteers”. Barry became the commander of the West Cork Flying Column and later, successfully led a small troupe in Crossbarry against 1,300 British in battle.

This stage production of Tom Barry’s autobiographical book (Mercier Press) has been a serious hit for Verdant Productions in association with GDI Productions since premiered last year. Neil Pearson is the director, having adapted it for stage himself. ‘Guerrilla Days’ comes to Lime Tree September 19-22 after six days in Dublin’s Olympia and is now on tour nationwide.
Limerick audiences know the IFTA winning Brendan Conroy from his pensive Tommy Clocks in Island Theatre’s ‘Pigtown’, and screen roles in ‘The General’, ‘The Ballroom of Romance’ and ‘Stella Days’. Here he is a mature Tom Barry with Aidan O’Hare cast as his younger self, with Michael Grennell and Jack Walsh sharing the stage in many parts.
Book for Lime Tree Theatre, Mary Immaculate College from Wednesday September 19 to Saturday 22, 8pm and www.limetreetheatre.ie.