Moving drama inspired by Titanic tragedy

A play that was inspired by a Galway man’s fateful journey on the Titanic will be brought to Galway City next month following sell-out performances in Tuam.

The Crossing, which was written by Tuam-based Patricia King Callaghan, is based on the experience of a young Oranmore man who boarded RMS Titanic in 1912, seeking a new life in Massachusetts.

Twenty-three years old Andrew Keane from Toberroe, Derrydonnell, was all excited as he boarded Titanic in Cobh. Records show that left Ireland armed with a dozen hurleys, hoping to promote the game in his new home. Unfortunately, he never arrived.

Patricia has incorporated Andrew’s story into the main character of Tommy in The Crossing. He also leaves Ireland with his hurley to start a better life in Massachusetts.

Tuam native Patricia King Callaghan, a daughter of PJ and Bernie King, has written many children’s shows and pantomimes for local groups such as Take and Bow and Stage Left. She has also written for pre-school children as well as primary and secondary students.

Last year, she wrote and produced her first adult play, which was act one of The Crossing.

It was presented in conjunction with Tuam’s first ever Three Rings Arts Festival in the intimate setting of The Miller’s House at the Little Mill.

Audience reaction was very positive and in response Patricia decided to write a second act. The latest production was a sell-out when it was staged in Tuam’s Mall Theatre, recently.

“Local support and loyalty were phenomenal and many of the public asked to view the play again,” she said of the decision to transfer it to An Taibhdhearc in Galway City. It will be performed on Saturday, June 17.

“It’s very ironic but intriguing that I mentioned an original Harry Clarke stained glass piece in the play and a descendant of Mr Keane who is also called Andrew Keane from Athenry made a beautiful stained glass of a moon for our show in Tuam,” Patricia added,

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.