Like most counties throughout Ireland Longford boasts a long tradition of theatre dating back to the Bannon Hall Players in the 1930's. The Group has its origins in what was called Longford Dramatic Society when in 1988 the group changed its name to Backstage Theatre Group. Since then the group has produced over 60 productions across all theatrical disciplines. Additionally the group has hosted one act festivals and participated in one act, three and international festivals. This culminated in the successive All Ireland One Act Finals performances in 1987 and 1988 and in the Three Act Finals from 1989 to 1991. The group has also been involved in co-productions with professional companies such as Blue Raincoats and Gallowglass.
With the growth of the group - both in terms of its membership and number of plays being staged, the concept of providing a purpose built theatre was mooted in conjunction with Longford Slashers.
A management committee was formed between the two groups in November 1991. The daunting task of planning and co-ordinating the project commenced in earnest. Behind the scenes an enormous collective effort was invested in research, consultation and securing the necessary funding
In April 1995 the Group's existing performance space was opened. The end product has resulted in not only in the existing home of Backstage Theatre Group but also a centre for the arts which still remains one of the premier arts venues in the country.
The group has continued to broaden and deepen its role - with a priority towards the production high quality productions for our audiences. In tandem with our own productions and festival circuit the group has run theatre workshops in a whole range of theatre skills, including acting/direction, lighting, writer's courses and make up under the guidance of professionals.
In particular, the group has actively pursued a policy of youth drama and in this regard Backstage Youth was established in 1996. Moreover a number of productions that have been staged by Backstage have been written by 'writers in residence' from within the Group.
One particular highlight was the production of a one act play ' A Mother's Love's A Blessing' exclusively written for the group by the internationally acclaimed author of the 'Butcher Boy' and 'Dead School', Patrick Mc Cabe.
The group has shown that it has exhibited the talent and commitment to flourish and grow and to develop hidden talent, promote youth theatre. The group has over the years shown an ability to experiment with new forms of theatre as well as revisiting the old. Our continued ambition to add a new dimension to theatre and social life in Longford.
