Q&A with Lauren Farrell – Dancing At Lughnasa – 3Olympia

Gate Theatre in association with 3Olympia Presents Dancing At Lughnasa
Date: Fri 27th Jun 2025 – Sat 26th Jul 2025

Lauren Farrell plays Rose in the revival of Dancing At Lughnasa in the 3Olympia. It opens on June 27th in the 3Olympia, Dublin. We had the chance to put some questions to Lauren about the forthcoming production and her love of theatre. You can see the results below.

When did you first fall in love with the theatre? 

It happened pretty young! I grew up in the countryside in Leitrim, and anytime we had family friends over visiting for a weekend or something, I’d rope all the kids into putting on a show with me. After a decent rehearsal period, we’d then present the performance to the parents. It was thrilling! Also, I’ve some very fond memories of going to Dublin to see the Panto in the Gaiety every January for my Birthday. That was a real treat.

At what stage did you first start to think of it as a career?

As soon as I understood the concept of growing up and having a job. Whatever age that would have been. I always knew that’s what I wanted to do. I also remember wanting to be a Botanist as a kid, too, but it was Botanist/Actor, like I’d somehow juggle both.

When was the first time you saw Dancing at Lughnasa? What were your initial thoughts on it?

2023 The National Theatre’s production. I was mesmerised. The play evokes more feelings than thoughts for me. I was and continue to be deeply moved and emotionally surprised by it. It’s my favourite play, I think it’s a sacred piece of work.

This production was initially at the Gate Theatre last year. How did you hear about the revival of the production? Were you surprised?

No, I wasn’t actually, I had this strong intuitive feeling the night of the 21st of September, our final performance at the Gate, that I’d be back playing Rose. It felt like the journey wasn’t over yet. However, it may continue. I knew I hadn’t said goodbye to her.

Are there any changes to the cast or crew this time out? 

Yes, we have a new Chris played by Eilish McLaughlin and a new Kate played by Pauline Hutton.

One of my lasting memories of the production is the wonderful, wild dance scene. Can you tell me about how it was developed in rehearsal? 

That was created and nurtured by two absolute powerhouses, Jean Butler and Sue Mythen. It’s difficult for me to describe the evolution of that dance in words. But to quote the play: “Dancing as if language no longer existed because words were no longer necessary.”  That line captures the heart of it.

Are you looking forward to opening night in the 3Olympia? 

I sure am!