12 March 2015
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Billy Keane, son of famous playwright John B. Keane, is guest speaker at the March lecture organised by Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage.
The event titled “The Life and Times of John B. Keane”, will take place at The Parish Centre, Clonakilty tonight at 8.30pm.
One of Ireland’s most prolific literary figures, John B. Keane lived most of his life in Listowel, where as a publican he was provided with a rich source of inspiration for his humorous and passionate plays, novels and short stories. Some of his most popular plays including “The Field”, “Sive”, “Many Young Men of Twenty” and “Big Maggie” have been staged by the local Kilmeen Drama Group over the years to great acclaim.
He also wrote many fine novels. A member of Aosdána and a founding member of the Society of Irish Playwrights, he won many awards for his literature, including a Gradam medal, the Abbey Theatre’s highest award, in 1999.
John B’s son Billy Keane is himself a well-known broadcaster and journalist and like his father is also a publican and novelist.
He too possesses a fountain of knowledge on the colourful characters of his native Listowel.
This event is organised by Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage and all are most welcome to attend. People are advised that arrive early as seating is limited.
