Gorgeous adaptation will leave you smiling
IT has been a big week for fans of Maeve Binchy as the official world premiere of ‘Minding Frankie’ hit the stage at the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin.
The idea for the adaptation of this book was given the green light by Maeve’s husband, Gordon Snell, who looks after the late writer’s legacy. It’s hard to believe this is the first time ever a Maeve Binchy novel has been brought to the stage — in spite of the many films made from her books, including Hollywood blockbusters like Circle Of Friends and Tara Road.
So it was no mean feat for the team behind this new production — the pressure was on to make sure the new play captured the spirit of Maeve’s writing while still being a dynamic and vibrant production that can captivate a live audience.
Thankfully, the adaptation by Shay Linehan has managed to stay faithful to the story and under the experienced hands of director Peter Sheridan, a warm and wonderful piece of theatre has been created.
The play tells the story of Noel Lynch, a struggling alcoholic trying to be the best father he can be after his ex-girlfriend dies of cancer, leaving him holding their baby.
However, social worker Moira Tierney is determined to place the child in the care of the ‘perfect’ foster home — and will seemingly go to any lengths to make it happen.
Brimming with warmth and wisdom, fans of Maeve Binchy will adore this play for its relatable characters and spot-on depiction of Irish life and culture in the 90s.
It’s a big ask as well — as a twohander Steve Blount and Clare take on the roles of Noel and Moira — as well as a host of other characters. One of the most unusual things for theatre-goers is the pair also frequently break the fourth wall and talk to the audience throughout, to ensure we always understand their motivation.
Although this jars slightly at the start, it soon becomes clear that it’s an ingenious storytelling device employed by director Peter Sheridan, who is happy to break the traditional rules as long as it makes for interesting viewing — which this invariably does.
HAVING recently seen Barrett’s scene-stealing performance in ‘The Train’, it was no surprise to see that she was a force to be reckoned with once again as Moira in ‘Minding Frankie.’
But when it comes to the scene stealing, this really is undoubtedly Blount’s show.
Whether he’s falling down drunk in the street, trying to soothe a crying ‘baby’ or defending himself to a judgemental social worker, Blount manages to imbue the character of Noel with just the right amount of hilarity, empathy and desperation.
A gorgeous, heart-warming tale that will leave a big smile on your face for days afterwards.
Minding Frankie runs at the Gaiety Theatre from June 6 - 17 for two weeks only. Tickets from €25 are on sale now.