Today for International Women’s Day, Ms Dignam and Fifth Year History students attended a talk in Navan library given by journalist and best-selling author, David Kenny and award winning playwright and producer, Deirdre Kinahan.
David Kenny spoke to the students about Máire Nic Shiubhlaigh who was a founder actress of the Abbey Theatre, and its first leading lady when it opened in December 1904. Kenny is the grandnephew and in March 2016, Kenny edited and published her memoirs, The Splendid Years, which he also discussed.
Deirdre Kinahan currently sits on the Abbey Theatre Board. Her play, Wild Sky, was commissioned by Meath County Council Arts Office in commemoration of events leading up to the 1916 Rising and was performed locally, nationally and internationally throughout 2016. She read an excerpt from Wild Sky and highlighted why International Women’s Day is so important for everyone, not just women.
Both speakers were very informative and their knowledge about the women and events of 1916 was fascinating. The students really enjoyed themselves.
Pictured are the students with David Kenny, Deirdre Kinahan and County Librarian, Mr Ciaran Mangan.
