Sacred Play

More about the book

This book is a literary tour de force, examining 28 Irish plays and revealing their rich cultural context in an engaging way. Anne O'Reilly's analysis inspires a longing to return to theatre, blending readability with profound ideas. The recurring theme of 'journey' is explored from various angles, offering insights into quests for soul, self, healing, sacred meaning, and transformation. Captivatingly, the text not only delves into the plays and their narratives but also encourages readers to rethink and reimagine their own stories. It stands as a significant literary work of art. The structure includes sections on theatre as a sacred space, thematic explorations of memory, ritual, darkness, transformation, and vision. Notable plays discussed range from "Baglady" by Frank McGuinness to "The Lonesome West" by Martin McDonagh, each contributing to the overarching theme of journeys. The conclusions drawn from these explorations invite readers to reflect on the interplay between the plays and their own life experiences. With a comprehensive bibliography and index, this work serves as both an educational resource and an artistic celebration of Irish theatre.