Playography is currently undergoing an essential rebuild, technical update and maintenance. All updates are on hold until the rebuild is complete. We are continuing to work hard in the background and are still accepting submissions which will be complete in Autumn 2023. For more information visit ITI's website.

Plays

Printer Friendly

The Burning Spirit

OVERVIEW

  • Playwright

    Seán Dunne (1) 

  • Author Notes

    Jessica Kirby and Desmond Brambley are also credited with 'Scripting' in the original production programme.

  • Synopsis

    The Burning Spirit is a tale of intolerance based on the true story of young Bridget Cleary, who was burned by villagers in Tipperary in 1895. Bridget is married to Michael and the demise of this relationship is at the heart of this play. While Bridget's unconventional attitudes and sheer passion for life result in her social exclusion, Michael burrows deeper into the fabric of conventional society. Terrified that his wife may be possessed, Michael rallies the communal and familial support that ultimately results in Bridget's death.

  • Play Type

    Plays General

    Number Of Acts

    Full-Length

  • Cast Size Male

    5

  • Cast Size Female

    4

  • Cast Notes

    Cast doubling is possible. See original production for details.

ORIGINAL PRODUCTION

Original Cast  
Michael Cleary Myles Horgan
Bridget Cleary Diane O'Keeffe
John Dunne Gavin Dunne
Hannah Burke Tracey Walsh
Old Mrs. Cleary Cliodhna O'Meara
Herbalist Denise Cahalane
Priest Daragh Fitzgerald
Patrick Boland Daragh Fitzgerald
Tom Murphy Iro Scerbo
Production Team  
Director Trish Edelstein
Set Designer Roisin O'Meara
Lighting Daniel Licht
Lighting Mickael Benet
Composer Eoin McQuinn
Musician Donagh O'Shea
Production Team Mary Horan
Production Team Monika Lojack
Production Team Orfhlaith Tuohy
PR Tom Sheehan
PR Rebekah Ring
Graphic Design Mark Kenny

UNPUBLISHED SCRIPTS

RIGHTS INFORMATION

SOURCE OF INFORMATION

The information for this entry was taken from the original production programme and promotional flyer.