Holding the Fort

After a busy first half of the year and a very busy Vintage Week and Arts Festival, as it was time for the theatre staff to enjoy some well deserved holidays , one of our regular volunteer Kate Garahy held the fort while we were away.

For a week, she was the face of the theatre, facilitated the visits of Emma Barone's exhibition and promoted our brand new Autumn/Winter programme.

Kate has always been a story teller and a keen writer so we weren't surprised when she arrived the following week with a manuscript of her musings from a rare week of calm at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre.

“Holding the Fort”

By Kate Garahy

August 2025

Monday - Day One

I sit in silence. No voices within. Applause non-existent. All quiet. The sounds from the passing traffic on this tree-lined Mall interrupt my thinking. This Georgian residential street has history, grandeur, relics of a bygone era. The large chestnut trees are in my line of vision, chestnuts slowly budding to remind one of coming Autumn.

I return to reality and observe my present place of rest and relaxation. Phone is silent. No light on screens. No electronic demands or messages. This building is mine for now. No earthly creature invading my space.

Over two centuries ago, this building was constructed. The local men provided the labour with very long working hours and only very rudimentary tools. Poverty was rife in that time and if no monetary payment was given for their labour, a bag of potatoes and a can of milk was welcomed to help feed a family.

The fruits of their labour now stands proudly, providing a venue for actors, musicians and all artists. An evening of entertainment and enjoyment for all who enter these doors.

The parquet floors creak, expanding from the heat of the day. Or has the ghost changed her nocturnal movements to daylight hours?

Tuesday - Day Two

Sunshine comes through the windows, illuminating the stained glass and bringing that art to life.

I’m alone, sitting in her chair. Emma H’s space. Her presence here delights all who enter. As she alights to greet the public, long black hair reaching her shoulders, her communication skills are perfect. She moves in silence in her black Converse footwear, only the rustle of her long skirt is audible. Smiling but very professional in her delivery of the information sought. This Galway Girl, who crossed the Shannon to join us, is Birr’s gain.

A voice from the corridor heralds the entry of Emma Nee. Her ponytail swinging with her smart movement of foot. Her smiling face, keen eyes, and observational skills show her position of authority. Yes, and inside lies a generous, caring person to all. Many deeds of kindness exercised beyond the call of duty.

The blond and beautiful Anne enters the picture. Her demeanour only surpassed by the ever-fashionable attire she wears with style. Competent, very capable, excellent hosting skills and a big heart has our Anne.

A male member of staff enters the room. Gildas is welcomed by every female in sight. Standing 5 ft 10 ins in height – a slim, but very masculine figure dressed in cashmere jumper, Charvet shirt and suede shoes, matching trousers.

How do us Irish females respond to this French man? His greeting is a kiss on both cheeks. Not one lady in the present group shies away from his embrace. All work on hold while we savour his greeting.

Perhaps the Arts Council might fund a crash course in French style greeting. Watch this space! Behind this sophistication, Gildas has a kind and very generous heart.

Wednesday - Day Three

Now enters Connor. Stealing softly in his leather Docs. Long, shining hair tied neatly back. To steal a song title, he is our “Long Legged Man Dressed in Black”. His smile is accentuated when the sunlight catches his facial jewellery. Always sharing his knowledge when needed. A quiet, caring man to all who know and work with him.

Thursday - Day Four

I hear James going about his duties, breaking the silence. His emergence from the basement perhaps unearthed some treasure trove. On closer scrutiny, all will be revealed.

Day over, I emerge into a sunlit afternoon. Casting a backward glance at this seat of entertainment and its staff, I know I have found my tribe.

The End.