ESSO ALL IRELAND DRAMA FESTIVAL

"These trophies are from the 60's, 70's and 80's, won in what was formally known as the Esso All Ireland Drama Festival. The Amateur Drama Movement (ADM) and festival was brought about as a social activity for young people and communities to be involved in during Lent, when dancing was forbidden. The trophies belong to Gerry and Patricia King of the Tuam Theatre Guild, Co Galway. Over their 40 years of treading the boards they say that the Amateur Drama Movement (ADM) offered them the opportunity to travel, to make friendships with people all across Ireland and in some ways it was better than a university degree. The Drama Festival however, was not just about winning trophies. It provided the people and communities involved with a structured social outlet when there was high emigration, high unemployment and the disadvantages of low incomes. It offered ententrainment and education to the players and audiences alike. In a time of very few outlets, the amateur productions gave a chance of achivement, the chance escape from the humdrum and added a bit of spice to life. The ADM was also a doorway for many amateurs to turn professional. The ADM and ensuing festivals has offered 1000's of participants the chance to socialise, the chance to learn and the space in which to do it. In Gerry and Patricia's case, which is not unique to them, it has led to a love of theatre and the arts over a 50 year period. (They are still going strong). "