AN ALLEGORY by a former Clare TD will be read publicly for the first time this weekend.
Róisín’s Robe was an allegory by former Clare TD, Patrick Hogan (LAB). The one-act play will be read publicly for the first time by Clare Youth Theatre in glór on Saturday, at 7pm.
Originally billed for production by the Dramatic Society of the Irish Transport and General Workers Union on Sunday April 23rd, 1916, the performance of Róisín’s Robe did not take place due to the Easter Rising.
This production is presented by Clare Arts Office as part of the Decade of Centenaries Programme and is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media and Clare County Council. This rehearsed reading by the youth theatre members is produced by Jessica Curtin.
The play delves into themes of loss, resilience, and national identity through the allegorical representation of Ireland as Róisín. Róisín, a matriarch longing to reclaim her stolen robe, symbolises Ireland’s quest for freedom and unity. Her family, each embodying different facets of the Irish struggle, face both internal and external conflicts as they strive to restore their mother’s dignity and heritage.
Killmaley born Hogan was a Clare TD from 1923 to 1938 and 1943 to 1969. He was a Senator for the Labour Panel from 1938 to 1943. As a young man he joined Conradh na Gaeilge and the Irish Volunteers; however, he was deported to England for his activities. During the Irish War of Independence he fought against the Black and Tans in County Clare. After the Anglo-Irish Treaty he became an official with the Irish Transport and General Workers’ Union (ITGWU).
In 1951 he became Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann, a position he held until his retirement in 1967. He welcomed United States President John F. Kennedy to the house on 28 June 1963 during his visit to Ireland. He died in office on 24 January 1969.[5] No by-election was held for his seat.
Admission is free to this Heritage Week event. No tickets are required, and all are welcome.
