The curtain rises on Druid Theatre's 'The Shaughraun', a rip-roaring 19th-century romp that has Galway audiences in stitches and begging for more. This effervescent production, directed by the inimitable Garry Hynes, is a testament to Dion Boucicault's mastery of stage spectacle – his works were the toast of both New York and London back in the day.
Underpinning this energetic endeavour is a miniaturist approach that brings Irish landscapes to life like illustrations from a picture book. The ten-strong ensemble, led by Aaron Monaghan as the charismatic Conn 'the Shaughraun', performs acrobatic feats with ladders and furniture that glide effortlessly across the stage. Monaghan's portrayal of Conn is more than just a character – it's an extension of Boucicault himself.
The intricate narrative careens through themes of land-grabbing, kidnappings, and escaped Fenians pursued by bumbling English redcoats, all set against a backdrop designed by Francis O'Connor that features pages from an Ordnance Survey map. This design choice not only places the play's antics within their colonial context but also nods to Brian Friel's 'Translations', with comic misunderstandings muddying the romance between Captain Molineux (Fintan Kinsella) and Claire Ffolliott (Megan Cusack).
As the plot thickens, the secret return of Claire's brother, Robert Ffolliott (Marty Rea), from Australia throws a spanner in the works. Captain Molineux finds himself increasingly bewildered by this 'extraordinary' country, while Rory Nolan's over-the-top portrayal of Kinchela as a puffed-up villain adds to the mayhem.
Aaron Monaghan's performance as Conn, who masterminds Robert's escape from jail with his trademark roguish charm, is nothing short of breathtaking. Perfectly cast, Monaghan echoes his acclaimed previous role as Christy Mahon in Synge's 'The Playboy of the Western World'. Marie Mullen, playing Conn's lamenting mother, mischievously draws upon her extensive experience playing Synge widows, adding another layer to the ensemble's outstanding performance.