David Doyle - Producer & Lighting Designer

Quincy (Michael-David McKernan) goes to the audition for the latest talent show on the TV as a joke. One of his friends entered him in the competition and he has no real ambition to win it. This show has the unusual twist that you have to write and perform your own songs. He uses a song his Dad wrote and taught him when he was just a boy. When he gets through the first round, he is somewhat surprised. He didn’t think he had what it takes, but as he moves on through the rounds he starts to get drawn into the murky world of corruption and greed.

 

This play aims to shine a light on the TV talents shows and delves into how even a small taste of fame can alter your life. It dwells on the rise to the top without showing the inevitable fall on the other side. The play has two cast members, with Michael-David McKernan playing the main character Quincy, a young man from Swords with a care free attitude and a touch of a swagger. Daryl McCormack plays all the other characters, including friends, hairdressers, security staff, producers and the stars of the TV show. There is much more scope in McCormack’s part and he really shows his versatility in the quick changes between the various roles.

 

There are many mentions of social media and the attention Quincy receives from his online fans. The Facebook and Twitter likes, and even the Tinder swipes that come with his new found status. This attention starts off as a novelty but it grows into something quite addictive. His instantaneous fame is teased apart and it gives an insight into the problems that come with it, such as the attention of the tabloids.

 

The play is also written by McKernan and it certainly shows promise, largely resisting the obvious clichés and pit falls. There are many comedic moments due to the actors portrayal and also the script itself. The topic of reality TV is well travelled but this play puts a new slant on it and shows how easy it is for any individual to be drawn in by this world and the Faustian pacts required to make it to the top. The two impressive performances are the highlight of this production, with the actors giving great life to the characters they inhabit.