Eva O'Connor, an Irish theatre-maker, has captivated audiences with her latest play, 'For Dolores', which explores the intense friendships formed during university years. O'Connor's personal connection to the story is evident, as she draws from her own experiences in Edinburgh, where she felt surprised by the lack of Scottish friends. This article delves into the emotional journey of the play's characters, Réaltín and Mo, and the impact of their friendship on O'Connor's own life and career.
O'Connor's journey in the theatre world began in Edinburgh, where she put on her first Fringe show at just 19 years old. She has since become a regular at the festival, using it as a springboard for her work with Sunday's Child, a Dublin-based theatre company. Her impressive back catalogue includes plays like 'Maz and Bricks', which tackled abortion, and 'Overshadowed', which won the Mind Media Award for Best Drama. O'Connor's ability to create impactful and thought-provoking theatre is evident in her work, as seen with 'Mustard', a solo performance that won a Fringe First Award in 2019.
'For Dolores' is a two-hander directed by Jim Culleton of Fishamble, featuring young actors Lara McDonnell and Catriona Faint. O'Connor's decision to cast a Scottish actor, Catriona Faint, as Mo, adds a layer of authenticity to the play. The story explores the intense friendship between Réaltín and Mo, two students from different backgrounds, and the events that led to their estrangement. O'Connor's interpretation of the friendship as intense and unsustainable, yet captivating, reflects her own experiences and the pull between friends.
The play's exploration of class and political views, as seen through Réaltín and Mo, is a reflection of O'Connor's own journey in Edinburgh. Her encounter with progressive and radical views shaped her political perspective, and she wanted to capture this in her play. O'Connor's personal connection to the story is further emphasized by her own experiences of meeting few Scottish people at university, which contrasts with the intense friendships she formed.
O'Connor's work at the Fringe has been a significant part of her career, providing a platform for her to experiment and learn. However, she expresses concern about the rising costs of taking new work to the festival, questioning the accessibility for those on a shoestring budget. Despite this, her dedication to the Fringe remains, as evidenced by her multiple Fringe First Awards and the success of her plays like 'Chicken', which has taken her work around the world.
In conclusion, 'For Dolores' is a deeply personal and thought-provoking play, showcasing O'Connor's talent for storytelling and her ability to create compelling characters. Her journey in the theatre world, from her early days in Edinburgh to her current success, is a testament to her passion and dedication. As O'Connor continues to create impactful theatre, her work will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on audiences and inspire future generations of theatre-makers.
