Playwright steps boldly back into theatre

Following a period of health challenges, a prolific Cork playwright has returned to the world of writing and directing, with her new play set to open in Cork next month.

Having directed her first play in 1968, Marion Wyatt’s writing credits include ‘Dockers’, ‘Shawlies’, ‘The Echo Boys’, ‘Katty Barry: Queen of the Coal Quay’, and ‘The Sunbeam Girls’.

Known for creating work rooted in Cork life and culture, Wyatt’s plays explore ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges, often combining humour, warmth, and emotional truth.

Now in her seventies, Wyatt is back with renewed determination and enduring passion with her brand new play, ‘Bold’.

Set in Cork during the late 1960s and early 1970s, the play follows Madeleine ‘Maddie’ Miller, a determined young woman whose passion for theatre leads her to challenge expectations, question authority, and carve out her own path.

Drawing inspiration from a generation of young people who dared to dream beyond the limits placed upon them, ‘Bold’ is a warm, funny, and deeply human story about finding your voice and refusing to give up on what matters most.

Maddie is played by Cork-based actor Emely Tenhagen whose recent theatre credits include ‘Anatomy of a Day or the Anti-Prometheus’ at Dance Cork Firkin Crane; ‘Macbeth’ at Cork Opera House, and ‘No Exit: After Sartre’ at Cork Arts Theatre. A versatile performer with a particular interest in physical theatre and classical text, Tenhagen has continued to develop her craft through workshops in Shakespeare, devising, stage combat, and ensemble performance.

The play’s supporting cast are young Cork actor and CADA member, Christopher McSweeney; West Cork performer, musician, and composer, Anne-Marie O’Brien; and Cork-based actor, director, and theatre maker, Rob J Cogan.

For Wyatt, the production of ‘Bold’ represents both a new chapter and a return to familiar territory. After directing her first play in the late sixties, she has spent decades working in theatre as a director, writer, mentor, and creative leader. ‘Bold’ marks her return to full-scale production work and a renewed commitment to creating opportunities for emerging performers and theatre-makers.

“Theatre has given me friendship, purpose, laughter, and community,” says Wyatt.

“More than anything, it has taught me that every ending is also a beginning. ‘Bold’ is a celebration of persistence, curiosity, and the courage to keep going.”

‘Bold’, written and directed by Marion Wyatt, is coming to Cork Arts Theatre from 1-4 July. Tickets range from €15 to €20 and can be purchased via corkartstheatre.com.