HAVE A LAUGH: Tipperary drama group to stage hilarious three-act comedy The Maiden Aunt

Fethard Players return to the Abymill Theatre, from January 29 to February 3, performing a three-act comedy, The Maiden Aunt written by Jimmy Keary, and produced by Marian Gilpin.

The Maiden Aunt features Gertie O’Grady, a retired teacher and spinster, who comes to stay with her niece, Mary Murphy, after a spell in hospital.

Mary tries to persuade her aunt to make a will. When Gertie apparently dies, Mary’s husband, Dan, comes up with an elaborate plan to get their hands on her money.

The characters are played by the following: Gertie O’Grady (Niamh Hayes, a retired teacher in her late fifties; Mary Murphy (Mary Boland Prendergast), a hard-working farmer’s wife in her late forties; Dan Murphy (PJ Henehan), Mary’s husband, who is of similar age; John Paul Murphy (Mark Fitzgerald), Dan and Mary’s son, whose ideas are too big for his brain; Jarlath McKenna (Owen Healy), a good-natured friend of John Paul’s, who impresses Gertie; Francie Gilhooley (Liam O'Connor), a farm labourer in his fifties, with an eye for the women; Caroline Quinn (Una Kiernan), a well-to-do neighbour of the Murphy’s and former pupil of Gertie’s; Paula Moore (Lisa Hanrahan), a young solicitor, who knows her business.

The play will open on Monday January 29, and run until Saturday, February 3. Curtain at 8pm.

Booking at www.gr8events.ie early booking is advisable. Tickets €18, plus online booking fee.