As well as being a much- appreciated opportunity for rural communities to see professional theatre in their locales, the West Cork Fit-Up Festival gives much needed work to actors during the summer months.

Feverish preparations are under way for the influx of 3,000 fans to the tiny West Cork village of Rossmore which annually hosts the country’s biggest drama festival.

Anita Reeves is relishing her new role as a worker in a nursing home, writes Colette Sheridan.