BELLTABLE will host PUCKED, a one-man theatrical blockbuster on Thursday February 27 and Friday February 28. This fast-paced comedy brings to life the world of hurling and the struggles of young ambition. Written and performed by Tipperary native Cathal Ryan, PUCKED explores themes of self-confidence, masculinity, and individualism while celebrating Ireland’s beloved national sport.
At the heart of the story is Matty Daly, a young hurler whose lifelong dream of playing on the senior team finally comes true. However, Matty soon discovers that life on the senior team isn’t everything he imagined. Packed with humour, energy, and an authentic love for hurling, PUCKED is a relatable and heartfelt exploration of the pressures and joys faced by young men in rural Ireland.
From Hurling to Theatre
Cathal Ryan, hailing from The Ragg, Tipperary, grew up steeped in the GAA culture. “You’re born with a hurley in your hand,” he jokes. Though he attended plays as a child, it wasn’t until the age of 17 that he began to explore theatre, trading training sessions for rehearsals. After studying performance at NUIG Galway, Cathal earned a coveted spot at The Lir Academy, graduating in 2021.
PUCKED originated from a conversation between Cathal and Brendan Maher of the Source Arts Centre in Thurles. Encouraged by mentors Gavin Kostick and Bryan Burroughs, Cathal developed the play as a celebration of hurling and an exploration of societal expectations for young men.
A Fast-Paced Theatrical Experience
Directed by Clonmel’s Jack Reardon, PUCKED brings theatricality and humor to the one-man show format.
Reardon, known for productions like From Out the Land, says the play offers “blockbuster theatre for regional audiences.”
Supported by a talented design team, the production immerses the audience in Matty Daly’s journey, from the camaraderie of the pitch to the isolation of WhatsApp group exclusion.
Endorsed by the GAA and kicking off its All-Ireland tour at the Source Arts Centre in Thurles, PUCKED is an unmissable experience for theatre and sports fans alike.
