I became an actor for one reason — because I loved it.

Mary (Cathy Belton) has just had her home repossessed. Jobless and desperate, and with child services breathing down her neck, the young-ish New Yorker decides to break in and occupy the fancy Manhattan home of a rich old lady (Ingrid Craigie).

One of Ireland’s finest playwrights, Brian Friel, is to be presented with a major award by President Mary McAleese today in an honorary ceremony.