When Philip Macdonnell picked the Frank McGuinness play for his debut as a director, there was a general air of excitement and anticipation among the DADS committee. Those
of us who knew the play were well aware of what a difficult undertaking this play is. We knew that it was going to challenge actors and director alike and that in Pholip Macdonnell there was a director with the experience and conviction to bring this wonderful
drama over the line. For his cast he chose three of the most experienced and talented actors we have and in Kieran Dowling and John Mulligan he had a technical team second to none.
The early signs were good with a well deserved win in Rush. This was followed by another win in Roscommon and similar results in Kiltyclogher and Glenamaddy ensured that DADS were back in the All Ireland finals once again.
The trip to Kilmuckridge for our performance on the night of the 15th of April was full of hope and excitement. DADS supporters were ecstatic at the performance on the night. Damian,
Martin and Ollie gave us a performance to be savoured for years to come. Philip's wonderful production ably enhanced by the superb lighting and sound gave us hope that we were on the brink of an historic breakthrough.
Alas, it was not to be, and when the results were announced, the DADS production was, for the second time in four years, pipped at the post by the narrowest of margins. Of course there was some disappointment
but we all realised that there will be other years - other productions. What DADS achieved with "Someone" was something special and all the cast and crew can be rightly proud of what they produced.