25th July 1999: A New Beginning
It all begins with a proposal to Action South Kildare and Kildare Library Services for a week-long art and drama workshop in the Meeting House (then the Library and Quaker Museum) in Ballitore led by Leish Burke and Jacques Candelay. The participants are 24 young people aged 8-12.
As the week progresses, lines are learnt, the Meeting House becomes stockpiled with props and costumes, things are starting to take shape.
With Librarian Mary Malone at the ready with a very large teapot for lunchtime picnics, the sun shining, and an original script by Jim Burke based on the life of the French heroine Jeanne D’Arc, the stage is surely set for a big performance on a big stage: The Little Theatre Crookstown Hall!
‘And love and harmony
Instead of arms will be
A new beginning
For living in peace’
– Lyrics to a song from the play
Jeanne D’Arc by Jim Burke