ACT Review for the Beauty Queen of Leenane

The Association for Community Theatre has released a glowing review for our performance of The Beauty Queen of Leenane, the second production of our centenary season. Thank you so much to ACT for the review and their ongoing support of our society. And most of all thank you to all the cast and crew who put in the work to pull off such a great production!

Continue below for a shorter (spoiler free) version, or read the full review here: Players Theatre Beauty Queen Review – Association of Community Theatre

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

Written by Martin McDonagh

Directed by Cate Berry

“From the very first moment, the audience is met with a truly striking set: the perfect evocation of a rustic Irish cottage. The distressed plasterwork on the walls, the flagged flooring, the farmhouse sink, and the traditional cooking range create an atmosphere so authentic that one can almost smell the peat fire. The level of detail in the set dressing is exceptional—shabby, cluttered, and utterly true to life. From the precisely positioned pile of newspapers in the corner to the abundance of kitchen paraphernalia and clothes drying beside the range, everything feels lived in. And the inclusion of genuine Kimberley biscuits? A triumphant touch from the Props team. Against this backdrop sits Mag’s rocking chair, the throne from which she reigns.

"Mary Ellis’s portrayal of Mag is compelling: irascible yet oddly endearing, demanding yet mischievously sharp. Her constant calls for porridge, cups of tea, and lump-free Complan are delivered with a combination of petty irritation and sly humour. Knowingly antagonistic, Mary still brings a mischievous spark to the role. Navigating each beat of the dialogue, she delights the audience and later, in a dramatic shift, that playfulness is replaced with an arresting fear that leaves the same audience silent.

"As Maureen, Chess Slattery is equally compelling. Her weary tolerance in the face of Mag’s endless requests feels deeply rooted—an exhaustion shaped by years of repetition. She navigates the kitchen with practiced efficiency while returning Mag’s barbs with a calm that seems unshakeable… at least at first. Their dialogue bounces back and forth so naturally; the audience feels it is part of a long-established ritual. When Maureen finally snaps and forces Mag to drink the lumpy Complan, it marks the first crack in her carefully maintained restraint—and hints at darker undercurrents to come...

"This revival of The Beauty Queen of Leenane is more than a tribute to the Society’s

past productions—it is a demonstration of its present strength. With meticulous design,

committed performances, and a deep understanding of McDonagh’s blend of humour

and tragedy, it is a gripping and memorable evening of theatre."

Read the full review here: Players Theatre – Association of Community Theatre Review