Event Details
Dates
20/09/2024 – 20/09/2024
Time
8pm - 9:30pm
Location
Galway Arts Centre, Nuns Island Theatre
Ticketing
No booking required
Event Type
Performance,
An Ode to Irish Youth: ‘Second Draft’ is a captivating new musical that delves into the personal and professional struggles of four young artists grappling with writer’s block, procrastination, and the idea of emigration.
Written and Directed by James Boylan Music by Hannah Cogan Second Draft, an innovative Irish musical is set to enthral audiences with its raw authenticity and vibrant storytelling this June at the Mick Lally Theatre. Follow the intertwined lives of Tommy, Grace, Rose and Michael as they grapple with writer’s block, procrastination, and the idea of emigration. Their individual quests offer a poignant glimpse into the complex realities of pursuing artistic careers in Ireland. It is both a love letter to and a critique of the vibrant yet tumultuous Irish arts scene.
Drawing inspiration from the experiences of young artists and the wider struggles of youth in Ireland, Second Draft resonates with anyone who has felt the push and pull of staying true to their passion while questioning their path. Through humorous writing and captivating melodies, the four characters reflect a kaleidoscope of thoughts and feelings, embodying the universal struggle of wanting to both escape and embrace the place they call home.
“Second Draft formed as both a love letter to, and expression of frustration towards, the Irish arts scene. The show not only draws from a general feeling amongst young people in Ireland of being totally lost even though you know exactly what you want to do. The four characters are all based on my own attitudes and feelings towards being an artist; the general sense that I’ve made the wrong life choice, the constant vague idea of emigrating, and an unending persistence to keep going.” – James Boylan.
About Hysteria Teatar
HystERia Teatar is a Galway-based company dedicated to exploring innovative, experimental, and multidisciplinary works that resonate with contemporary audiences. Committed to delivering dynamic theatrical experiences to Galway, the company seeks to shake up the local theatre scene. HystERia Teatar provides a space for emerging artists to push boundaries, ignite joy, and delve into the human experience. By bridging the gap between amateur and professional opportunities, the company offers emerging artists a platform to test their ideas and gain valuable experience.
About the artists
James Boylan is an emerging Writer, Lyricist, Dramaturg, Director, and Sound Engineer based in Galway City, working primarily in traditional and musical theatre. He has a BA in Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies with Classical Studies from the University of Galway. James received an Agility Award from Arts Council Ireland (2023) to develop the script and score and host a week-long development workshop of “Second Draft”.
Hannah Cogan is a Musician, Composer, Lyricist and Musical Director formerly based in Galway city, but is now working in the industry in Sydney Australia. She graduated with a BA in Drama, Theatre and Performance with English is 2023, and since then has concentrated on working in Musical Theatre, while also playing music gigs around Ireland. Her composer and lyricist credits include her original songs, “The Frogs” (2023), and “Second Draft” (2024).
