NEW play ‘48’ is a quick-witted, fast-paced tragicomedy based on true events surrounding the Stardust tragedy of 1981.
“It's the first play I’ve written and is inspired by my own parents’ escape from the fire,” writer Gemma Kane reveals.
“I am an Artane native, so it gives me great pleasure to bring 48 to The Viking Theatre and to perform the show for the first time on the Northside of Dublin.”
The story follows four young friends through the ups and downs of blue-collar Dublin life; the pitfalls of unemployment, the joys of falling in love, mad characters in impoverished communities and the hardships of prickly friendships and family feuds.
“Though the play is rooted in a harrowing disaster, I have chosen to present a heartfelt, fun-loving and comic narrative in the lead up to that fateful night,” Gemma adds.
‘48’ is a celebration of ‘80s working-class Dublin and all that came with it; the joy of being done up to the nines, socialising with friends in a mesh of energetic anthems, denim jackets and big hair.
Performing alongside Gemma are three Dublin actors, Emily Fox, Laurence Falconer and Niall O’Brien, who expertly ground the play with truth and dignity.
‘48’ runs in The Viking Theatre from January 6 to 18 at 8pm nightly.