Radio documentary on 'Sweet Inniscarra' set to air on Tipp Mid West radio

In December 1931, scenes for a landmark film were shot in Cashel, Co. Tipperary by a film crew consisting of Irish, British and US personnel. Entitled Sweet Inniscarra, the film was based on the play of the same name written back in 1897 by American - Augustus Pitou.

The updated film version of Sweet Innisicarra which was set in 1930s Ireland was significant in that it was publicised as the first 'talkie' to be shot entirely in the country with an all-Irish cast and scenes.

Sweet Inniscarra was directed and produced by an Irish-American named Emmett Moore. His background was in producing silent films and this was his first talkie. The actors in Sweet Inniscarrawho were all amateurs, hailed from dramatic societies in Cashel, Fethard and Portarlington.

The leading roles were played by Sean Rodgers (a founding member of Cashel Choral and Dramatic Society) and Mae Ryan (of Ryans Hotel on the town).

This six part documentary will investigate the story of Irelands first talkie, its cast, its producer Emmett Moore and examine some of the efforts made over the years to try and locate a copy of the film. Tom Hurley who produced the series will also be revealing the outcome of his own attempt to find a copy.

The documentary entitled Sweet Inniscarra will be aired over six consecutive Fridays at 11am on Tipp Mid West Radio beginning on February 7th, there will be a repeat of each episode on the following Tuesday evening at 6:30pm and the programmes will also be streamed on www.tippmidwestradio.com.