By Maeve Ingoldsby & Philip Hardy
“The Bus seeks to stimulate discussion rather than teach lessons. It succesed admirably, and is well produced with good acting, an excellent design of a bus interior and clued-in direction” – The Irish Times, February 12th, 2002

Sarah Brennan, Martina Austin, Declan Mills, Seamus Allan, Stephen Kelly and David McCory
The social world of a child is a minefield of shifting allegiances, uncertain loyalties, sudden hostilities, unspoken rules, pranks and casual cruelties. Fitting in is a challenge, especially when you’re just ten years old and starting at a new school.
The Bus follows the progress of the new boy as he familiarises himself with the politics of the school bus and learns for himself the rules for survival – and acceptance.
This is an ensemble piece with seven actors playing multiple roles. The production zings with explosive energy and breathtaking physical hi-jinks. As always with Barnstorm, while the play specifically reflects the child’s world, its universal theme makes it relevant to all ages.
A play for children aged 6 – 12 years.
Running time approx 60 minutes.
The Production | Production History | |
---|---|---|
Actor 1: Stephen Kelly | Watergate, Kilkenny | 6th – 15th February |
Actor 2: Roselle Healy | Siamsa Tíre, Tralee | 19th February |
Actor 3: Seamus Allen | Garter Lane @ The Forum, Waterford | 21st – 22nd February |
Actor 4: Sarah Brennan | Belltable, Limerick | 26th February – 1st March |
Actor 5: David McCorry | Backstage, Longford | 4th – 8th March |
Actor 6: Martina Austin | Gaiety, Dublin | 13th – 14th March |
Actor 7: Declan Mills | Blackbox, Galway | 20th – 22nd March |
Director: Philip Hardy | Mullingar Arts Centre | 25th – 27th March |
Set Design: Carol Betera | Hawk's Well Theatre, Sligo | 9th – 12th April |
Lighting Design: Jim Daly | An Grianán, Letterkenny | 15th – 16th April |
Costume Design: Bernie McCoy | St. Michael’s Theatre, New Ross | 18th – 19th April |
Choreography: Rebecca Walter | Civic Theatre, Tallaght | 22nd – 26th April |
Set Engineering: James Powell | Dunamaise, Portlaoise | 29th – 30th April |
Production Manager: Michael Burke | Pavilion, Dun Laoghaire | 2nd – 3rd May |
Technical Manager: Paul Spencer | ||
Tour/Stage Manager: Stephanie Ryan | ||
Deputy Stage Manager: Ronan Egan | ||
Set Construction: TPS | ||
Transport: Simon Burke |