A Cry from Heaven facts for kids
A Cry from Heaven is a play written in 2005 by an Irish writer named Vincent Woods. It tells a very old and sad story from Irish myths. This story is about a beautiful girl named Deirdre and the Sons of Usna. It is one of the most famous tragedies in Irish legends.
The play begins with the birth of Deirdre. Her arrival was marked by bad signs, like a sky full of dark omens. This started a big drama involving King Conchobar mac Nessa. The King became obsessed with Deirdre, which caused a lot of trouble and divided the land.
When Deirdre falls in love with Naoise, one of the Sons of Usna, they run away together. They go into exile with Naoise's brothers. This sets the stage for a terrible betrayal and a violent conflict that brings great sadness and trouble to the whole land of Ulster. The play is based on stories from the Ulster Cycle, a collection of ancient Irish tales. Vincent Woods's poetic way of telling the myth of Deirdre turns this timeless story into an exciting modern play.
First Performance
The play was first shown to the public at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, Ireland, in June 2005. Olivier Py directed the play, meaning he was in charge of how it was performed. Pierre-André Weitz designed the sets and costumes.
Many talented actors were part of the first cast:
- Kelly Campbell played Deirdre.
- Alan Turkington played Naoise.
- Olwen Fouéré played Ness.
- Denis Conway played Fergus.
- Bosco Hogan played Felim.
- Gabrielle Reidy played Leabharcham.
- Barry McGovern played Cathbad the druid.
- Ciarán Taylor played Conor.
- Peter Gaynor played Ainle.
- Aidan Turner played Ardán.
- Tony McKenna played White Bull.
- Charlie Kranz played Black Bull.
- Shane Gately played a Red Branch Soldier.
