Hollywood's Irish upset

Buy photos » Stones In His Pocket - Rob Sloan and Neil Morgan. (s)

A QUIET Irish community is turned upside down by the arrival of a Hollywood film shoot in Stones in His Pocket at Rugby Theatre from February 4 to 11.

Set in a rural town in County Kerry, the play tells the story of events that occur when the tiny community is overrun by a Hollywood film crew, making a period blockbuster movie.

The play centres on the characters of Charlie Conlon (Rob Sloan) and Jake Quinn (Neil Morgan), who like most of the town are employed as extras for the filming.

Much of the play’s comedy is derived from the efforts of the film crew to create the proper “Irish feel”, a romanticized notion that often conflicts with the reality of daily life.

In the same vein as the company's successful production of The 39 Steps last year, the entire story is brought to life by two actors who play over 15 characters between them.

Marie Jones' award-winning play is described as both comic and poignant, and proved a success both in the West End and on Broadway.

Director John Smith said: “The play is an enormous challenge for the two actors. Not only the vast amount of lines they are required to learn, but also the number of characters they are required to play.

"Concentration for them is paramount as the play moves so swiftly and characters come and go so quickly it would be very easy to cut to a totally different part of the play.

"But Neil and Rob are seasoned performers and I am confident they will rise to the challenge, although they do confess that it’s the hardest thing they have ever done.”

“Working with Rob and Neil to create these characters and seeing them grow in confidence has been more fun than a chore. It’s easy to see why the play is enjoyed by all who see it as it has a disarming charm, and this production will hopefully follow in the others’ wake.”

For tickets, priced £9.80 (concessions available), and further details visit www.rugby theatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01788 541234.