An Abbey Theatre and Lyric Theatre Belfast Co-Production
Written by Brian Friel
Directed by Caitríona McLaughlin
‘You can learn to decode us’
It’s August 1833. The pupils have gathered in a hedge-school in the townland of Baile Beag/Ballybeg. This Irish-speaking community in Donegal, has become the unlikely focal point for a changing world. Progress is coming. Tensions are growing. There are plans for a new English-speaking national school and a group of Royal Engineers have arrived to map the area. Translations examines the fractious relationship between people and nations through the lens of language and (mis)communication. Directed by Abbey Theatre Artistic Director and Donegal native Caitríona McLaughlin.
Brian Friel’s modern masterpiece finds a new potency, in a time where Brexit has thrown current Anglo-Irish relations into sharp relief, redrawing old boundaries, and opening up old wounds.
★★★★ -a timeless study of change and identity – The Guardian
★★★★ – Skilfully crafted production of Brian Friel’s mighty play – The Stage
‘a long refreshing drink of theatre tonic’ – Irish Independent
Cast: Leonard Buckley, Ruby Campbell, Zara Devlin, Andy Doherty, Brian Doherty, Holly Hannaway, Ronan Leahy, Aidan Moriarty, Marty Rea, Suzie Seweify, Howard Teale
