Drama students perform Fo’s ‘The Devil in Drag’

Students from Galway Community College’s Theatre Performance course will perform Dario Fo’s The Devil in Drag next Wednesday and Thursday, February 8 and 9, at 8pm in the City’s Taibhdhearc Theatre.

The production takes Fo’s 16th century farce and sets it in a big top where characters portray a variety of roles from the ringmaster to strong men, to clowns and acrobats. It’s a play full of physicality, music and vigour.

The Devil in Drag sees incorruptible and progressive Judge, Alfonso Ferdinando de Tristano, investigate arson in the big top. In return, the corrupt underbelly of the circus, attempts to discredit him, while Francipante and Barlocco – mischievous, devilish clown characters – try to possess him.

Due to a misunderstanding, the devil Barlocco enters the body of Alfonso’s elderly, ungainly housekeeper, Pizzocca Gannàssa, and she is transformed into a delectable, busty lady.

Fo’s absurd plot is full of action, calamity and creativity, and is ideal for a large cast.

‘’The college’s adaptation will showcase the abundance of talented students on the course this year,’’ says course Co-ordinator and Director Lorraine O’Hara McGrath, adding that many past students have gone on to further performance-based studies.

“All leave here with better confidence, advanced performance skills and loads of stage exposure.

“It’s great to have the opportunity to perform in the Taibhdhearc Theatre and the cast are all very excited about this.”

This fast-paced and energetic production has live music throughout. Tickets are €10.

■ Bookings and information, contact Galway Community College on actingclassgcc@ gmail.com  or phone (091) 565886.