On this episode of WNY Soundstage, host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Erica Murray, playwright of The Loved Ones.
Set in a secluded farmhouse in West Clare, The Loved Ones centers on Nell and her daughter-in-law, Orla, who gather to scatter the ashes of Nell’s son, Robin. What begins as a solemn weekend of remembrance quickly takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Cheryl-Ann, an American tourist seeking solace in the Irish countryside. The situation becomes more complicated when Gabby, a young Englishwoman seven months pregnant, appears on the scene, claiming to have shared a past relationship with Robin. As these four women connect, the play delves into the depths of grief, unearthing buried secrets and forcing each character to confront the delicate balance between truth and deception.
The play will be presented by Irish Classical Theatre Company from February 14 through March 2, 2025. Tickets are available here.
This episode includes:
- Early experiences
- What inspires her work as a writer
- What the elements of a perfect play might be
- The experience of watching her work being performed
- How humor finds its way into her work
- The experience of seeing her play in the US
- The audience experience at The Loved Ones
- What she hopes audiences discuss after seeing the play