Ballyshannon Drama Society presents ‘The Wonder Wheel’ by Barry Mc Kinley
Continuing our long-running relationship with Ballyshannon Drama Society, we are delighted to present 'The Wonder Wheel' by Barry Mc Kinley, directed by Moya Ferguson, on the opening night of the Allingham Arts Festival 2026. Set in a diner in Manhattan, the play introduces us to Larry and his Ma. Larry isn't broken or damaged — he simply sees the world at a different pace, moving between flashback and fantasy in a way that's as funny as it is quietly moving. It's a warm, inventive piece of writing, and a wonderful choice to open this year's festival. Director: Moya Ferguson Cast: Ronan Drummond, Kay O’Dee, Mark Kirby, Sarah Ferguson, Killian McManus, Kevin Lilly, Louise Larkin & Michael McMullin. About Ballyshannon Drama Society Ballyshannon Drama Society is one of Donegal's most accomplished amateur theatre companies, staging productions year-round from their home at the Abbey Arts Centre. Regular competitors on the All-Ireland Drama Festival circuit, the Society has represented Donegal at national finals on numerous occasions and has twice hosted the All-Ireland One Act Finals, in 1996 and 2014, as well as the All-Ireland Confined Finals in 2022. Their recent production of 'Margaret' swept the board at the Ballyshannon Drama Festival - taking Best Open Play, Best Director and Best Actress - before going on to compete at the All-Ireland Finals in Athlone. It's this same dedication and craft they bring to the Allingham stage, and we're delighted to have them taking part in the Allingham Festival once again.