Summer Revels: A Cork Tradition Returns

A new production brings back the spirit of fun and laughter for Cork audiences.

Summer Revels, a beloved Cork tradition that ran from the 1970s to the 1990s, is making a triumphant return to the Cork Opera House. Directed by Killian Collins and John O’Brien, the show runs from July 24th to August 11th, promising a fresh take on the classic variety format.

One of the key players behind this revival is writer Katie Holly, originally from Charleville. While she doesn't remember attending the original Summer Revels as a child, she was fascinated by its rich history during the research process.

"It was interesting going back to discover the massive success they had," Holly shared. "It just grew and grew, going from a two-week show to as long as eight weeks at its peak. There were really iconic Cork characters. It was so popular that it didn't need to be advertised."

The original Summer Revels featured much-loved local personalities like Cha and Miah, played by Frank Duggan and Michael Twomey, and the legendary Billa O'Connell. This new iteration aims to capture that same sense of community and warmth, while also introducing a unique twist.

"The main order of the day is that it is fun," Holly explained. "The old show was a variety show with musical numbers and comedy sketches. Our show has a through line. There will still be stand-alone sketches, but the whole effort is to create comedy for family entertainment. We’ve even thrown in a few gags for the grown-ups."

To ensure the new Summer Revels reflects the spirit of its predecessor, the team consulted past performers and conducted extensive research. They drew inspiration from the Cork pantomime, incorporating elements of that genre but with a distinct original storyline.

"We created all these new characters in the writing room so it's an entirely fresh show," Holly revealed. "A musical variety show spectacular! If anything suggested wasn't magic, revelry, or fun, it was cut – that's how we collaborated throughout the writing process."

The plot revolves around a group of characters putting on a show within a show. The audience gets a glimpse of the chaos behind the curtain, with iconic characters like a diva actor, a clumsy clown, and two audience members serving as comedic commentary.

"To be honest, these two characters are based on myself and my husband in 25 years time," Holly laughed, "He knows and considers himself to be a co-creator."

This new project marks a departure for Holly, who is best known for her adult-themed comedy-drama.

"It has been great to write with a younger audience in mind," she said. "It allows you to be more playful, to tap into what you would have found funny as a child."

She also enjoyed the collaborative writing process, working alongside John McCarthy, Kevin Twomey, Sally O’Leary, and directors John O’Brien and Cillian Collins.

"This is my first opportunity to do this type of work," she admitted. "I have always written on my own which can be a bit isolating. It is so lovely to collaborate with other writers and to bounce ideas around."

The team has poured a year of dedication into crafting this fresh and exciting production, ensuring a summer full of laughter and entertainment for all.

“It’s lovely to have a mirror show to the panto," Holly concluded. "This is brighter and summery with a great deal of fun. It is its own world really, being a play within a play, and has an element of surrealism.”

Tickets for Summer Revels 2024 are available at www.corkoperahouse.ie. Don't miss this chance to experience a beloved Cork tradition brought back to life with a vibrant new twist!