Kildare writers' play heading for the Gaiety
Pictured - Writers/producers Helen Spring and Carol Gleeson.
WHAT began with local ambition, loyal home support and a deep love of Irish theatre has grown into one of the region’s most remarkable homegrown success stories.
Naas writers and producers Helen Spring and Carol Gleeson, founders of A Likely Story Productions, are preparing to bring their acclaimed Irish production to the iconic Gaiety Theatre this June (9–13), marking the show’s second major national Dublin run in just two years following its sold out 3Olympia Theatre debut in 2024.
Since forming their independent production company in 2016, Helen and Carol have steadily built momentum through sheer determination, community support and an unwavering belief in their project — a vibrant Irish play with music set against the backdrop of the showband era.
The journey began close to home at The Moat Theatre in Naas, back in 2018, before the production went on to tour regionally with successful runs at VISUAL Carlow, and the Civic Theatre, Tallaght (twice) and Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny, with word-of-mouth continuing to build at every stage.
Like so many in the arts, the production’s momentum was abruptly halted by the disruption of Covid, but rather than allowing the project to stall, the creators used that unexpected pause to further refine the script, reshape the play, and strengthen the show that audiences see today.
Now, with more than 10,000 audience members having seen the production, takes its biggest step yet as it kicks off the Gaiety Theatre’s summer programme in only a matter of weeks.
The show also boasts a wealth of Leinster talent both onstage and behind the scenes, with many familiar faces having first honed their craft in local productions, musical societies and community groups across Naas, Newbridge, Clane and Maynooth. At the helm is acclaimed director Pat McElwain, with Clane’s Dave McGauran leading the show’s phenomenal live band as Musical Director.
Choreography comes from well-known local dance instructor Deirdre Browne, while musical arrangements and choral direction are under the expert guidance of Newbridge native Owen C. Lynch, whose exceptional choral work has long impressed audiences both locally and beyond. Set in 1960s Ireland, captures the energy, glamour and social spirit of the showband era.
