Cassidy Anne Hicks, Abby Weisbrot, Meghan de Chastelain, Kathleen WelchCassidy Anne Hicks, Abby Weisbrot, Meghan de Chastelain and Kathleen Welch kick up their heels during the University Players production of “Dancing at Lughnasa.” [photo by Doug MacLellan]

Irish festivities hitting the Hatch Studio stage

Irish festivities will begin early this year but instead of corned beef and green beer, University Players is serving up a Tony award-winning play.

The company’s production of Dancing at Lughnasa will open tonight—February 26—and continue through March 13 in the Hatch Studio Theatre, Jackman Dramatic Art Centre.

In the rural town of Ballybag, Ireland, the Mundy sisters are bound together with courage and their devotion to the seven year old love-child, Michael. Michael warmly remembers the pagan harvest festival of Lughnasa during the turbulent times of 1936. The family’s first radio, visits from his unreliable father, the return of his missionary uncle, and the unconditional love of his aunts, mark the fading days of summer.

Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. On Sunday, February 28, a “Talk Back” discussion with the actors will follow the performance. Order tickets: online at www.UniversityPlayers.com, or by calling 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.