by Fidget Feet & Ceol Connected
Black Box, March 28, 2025
'Theatre' is a broad term, perhaps becoming only broader given some of the experimental work coming out in recent years.
The era of setting plays in rural thatched cottages appears to be over; the days of 'the man at the door' are gone. This traditional style of theatre is making way for new, immersive experiences, which often incorporate various art forms. 'Multidisciplinary' is a word we hear a lot of now.
When the Moon Spun Round is described as a 'theatrical performance', but it has many strings to its bow: music, dance, aerial, storytelling. In truth, I am probably out of my depth passing any sort of judgement, as it is very far from the medium that I am familiar with. Yet, what I do know is that Fidget Feet & Ceol Connected have devised a hugely entertaining show, suitable for adults and children alike.
Jym Daly's words - based on the poetry of W.B. Yeats and folktales of Noreen Doody - are voiced by Olwen Fouéré, firmly framing this enchanting tale within in the confines of Irish literature.
Thomas Johnston's pipes and Tara Dunne's fiddle set the tempo for the aerialists, whose acrobatics never cease to amaze; provoking gasps and applause from the audience as they soar through the air. The sublime combination of music and movement sets our hearts racing, sparking imaginations, within both young and old.
Over the course of 50 minutes, there are moments of magic that are legitimately, spine-tinglingly, good.
This production denotes the high standard of family-friendly theatre in Ireland of recent times.
Whether it was Maria Andrés' Frágil at the West Cork Fit-Up Festival, Jody O'Neill's Grace at Nuns Island Theatre, or Carmel Winters' The Maestro & The Mosquita at An Taibhdhearc, I have been treated to some delightful performances over the past year which were suitable for people of all ages.
When the Moon Spun Round tours nationally until May 24.
For more information, see www.ceolconnected.ie
