PULL DOWN A HORSEMAN

Pull Down a Horseman: the secret meeting that agreed the date for the Easter Rising

Monaghan based Eugene McCabe’s one act play is a classic of political theatre. Based on actual events, the play depicts a secret meeting between Connolly, Pearse and other revolutionary leaders that was held to take the fateful decision. The outcome was that Connolly joined the Irish Republican Brotherhood, committed his Citizen Army to join with the Volunteers and finally, fixed a date for the Easter Rising. The meeting has a basis in fact, with Connolly 'invited' — some argue 'kidnapped' — to join the meeting, as senior members of the IRB leadership needed to convince him to join their efforts. The performance lasts 40 minutes. It is packed with historical detail, based on both the writings and known views of the two protagonists. Their arguments and ideas are pitched against each other in dramatic fashion.

The performance will be followed by a discussion drawing on the contextual environment provided by the Centenary year of the Rising. The play is directed by Conor O’Malley. The presenting Company, Dublin Lyric Players, borrows its name from the family association with the founding days of the Lyric.