The Pursuit of Diarmuid and Grainne
By Zoë Seaton

1999


The Pursuit of Diarmuid and Grainne


The Pursuit of Diarmuid and Grainne is a fast and furious story in words, images, music and dance. The story tells of the flight of ancient heroes, of fierce loyalty and revenge, and of 'girl power' in ancient Ireland, of gang loyalty and betrayal, of love and death. The piece was created by a team of four actors, choreographer, designer, composer and the company's Artistic Director, who drew upon local history and legend as well as contemporary issues to explore the story from as many creative angles as possible. Using an ancient and uniquely Irish story to explore and illustrate issues common to all cultures, the development of the piece questioned Grainne's demand of Diarmuid to follow her despite the awful consequences, Diarmuid's allegiance to the Fianna, the nature of love and male/female relationships and considered what control we have over our destiny. The development work incorporated two open rehearsals and provided a basis for community involvement in the project.