Gavin Quinn has oldies but goodies in the Abbey

Shakespeare’s comedy is set in a retirement home, and uses some of the Abbey’s veteran actors, writes Alan O’Riordan.

GAVIN QUINN’S directorial debut at the Abbey is steeped in the history of the national theatre. His Midsummer Night’s Dream will feature John Olohan, Des Cave, Máire Ní Ghráinne and Peadar Lamb, four cast members of a 1979 production, the last time the play was staged at the venue. Furthermore, Quinn has also cast Áine Ní Mhuirí, who joined the Abbey Company in 1965; and Des Nealon, whose first role was in 1956.

And these are not the only highly experienced performers. Playing the four ‘young’ lovers are John Kavanagh (Lysander), Áine Ní Mhuirí (Hernia), Gina Moxley (Helena) and Barry McGovern (Demetrius).