WYRD SISTERS

Terry Pratchett’s Wyrd Sisters adapted by Stephen Briggs: A medieval romp as three witches struggle against an evil usurping Duke. They must restore a kind King to the throne.

ABOUT SQUARE ONE THEATRE GROUP 

One could say it was written in the stars…On an unassuming Wednesday evening in the former residence (turned pub) of Oscar Wilde, a handful of players met to discuss the business at hand: How they could fulfil their desire to create theatre while also providing a much-needed cultural experience to the town which they called home. Among important topics was the need for a name. As the conversation continued and the obligatory tangents took place…a pause occurred. One of the group remarked “Look! We are back to Square One!” …and with those simple words of wisdom, so begat the group title and began a saga of stagework within the seaside suburb where that Strand Hotel was situated.

Their first show was ‘The Far Off Hills’ in 1976 which took place at the meeting area of a church called the Epworth Hall, followed by ‘An Trial’ and ‘Sive’.

Square One have staged international hit shows such as ‘The Crucible’, ‘Steel Magnolias’, ‘A Streetcar named Desire’, ‘The Odd Couple’, ‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’, ‘The Glass Menagerie’, ‘Pride and Prejudice’, ‘Macbeth’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’ among others. However the fellowship have always found favour with their Hibernian roots by presenting ‘The Field’, ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’, ‘The Plough and the Stars’, ‘Pygmalion’, ‘The Factory Girls’, ‘Juno and the Paycock’, ‘The Playboy of the Western World’…and of course the last play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ by the prince of wit Oscar Wilde. Fervent fans of Marina Carr, Square One have performed ‘By the Bog of Cats’ and ‘Portia Coughlan’ in the early 2000’s along with ‘The Mai’ in the late 90’s as well as the Autumn of 2023.

Over the years rehearsal and performance locations have included the original location of Colaiste Raithin, as well as a variety of school and church halls. The opening of The Mermaid Arts Centre in 2002 has provided the group with a place to call home and elevated production to an increasingly high standard. Observers comment on the exceptionally professional quality of the actors, sets, costumes, technical, design elements including poster art as well as the polished nature of interactions with the voluntary members, giving the impression this drama league is so much more than an amateur community troupe. 

Being a Bray based society of substance plus inspiration, members extend beyond the borders of Bray and surrounds including people with a variety of ages and skillsets. An extended family in many regards, regular social gatherings are a big part of the membership year. Other important developments over time include a Showcase event where members get to display unseen talents or test the waters of areas new to them. Annual competitions such as the Bray One Act as well as Glenealy/Wicklow play festivals have become standard with entries from the Square One stable of talent. The initiative of ‘Friends of Square One’ annual subscription has also further cemented the following within the local community and theatre going public at large. 

As Square One set their sites on a 50th anniversary in a mere few years, half a century has been full of fun while creating magical experiences for members and audiences alike in a pursuit of bringing the page to the stage.

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