Moving with grace on epic journey

Lifestyle – Gilgamesh, the Macnas outdoor spectacle for Galway 2020, faced many challenges because of Covid, as no mass gatherings were allowed. The innovative company adapted and reached new audiences via social media. A film being screened this Sunday continues that innovative approach, as BERNIE NÍ FLHATHARTA learns. 

There are many reasons to celebrate the screening of Gilgamesh this weekend — not only will it be the first time in almost two years since audiences gather for a Macnas show but it also showcases their work through film. Who would have thought that the street theatre company so synonymous with Galway would produce a short film that will now be seen not only locally but by people all over the world?

Their version of the epic story, Gilgamesh, was never intended for the big or indeed small screen. It was commissioned as a major live spectacle as part of Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture programme.

Rehearsals started on a Tuesday in March 2020, but a few days later Macnas, like many others, were shut down because of Covid-19.

After the initial shock of the implications of a pandemic on their plans, Macnas reorganised. Staff worked from home and their Artistic Director, Noeline Kavanagh was determined that all their hard work and planning on the Gilgamesh project was not going to fall by the wayside. One way, or another, Noeline decided that Gilgamesh would happen, in some shape, at some time.

Her resolve inspired the Macnas team to find another way to showcase this epic story of a demi-god’s adventures. Now, this Sunday at the Town Hall Theatre, there will be three showings of a stunningly beautiful 22-minute film shot in the hills and valleys of Connemara, on the stark surface of the Burren, on the sands of Omey Island and even in their home city. Galway City has been transformed through the magic of digital technology into Uruk, Gilgamesh’s legendary hometown.

As Noeline describes not only Gilgamesh’s fantastic journey but their own too, through the past 18 months, she buzzes with energy and excitement. It’s impossible to be in her presence and not be captivated by her.

A Renmore native, she grew up in this city of festivals and was inspired by street companies like Els Comediants from Spain who performed here for the 1985 Galway Arts Festival and indeed by the Macnas street parades in the early days of Festival.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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