Three Generations of Actors Appear In Troubled Bachelors at GAC

For the first time in its 30-year history, the Clan na Gael players at Fairfield’s Gaelic American Club will feature three generations of actors on the same stage. Fairfield residents David Pirrie, his son-in-law Dan O’Callahan and granddaughter Lila O’Callahan perform in Troubled Bachelors, running April 20-23 at the Gaelic American Club, 74 Beach Road in Fairfield.

Troubled Bachelors chronicles the struggles of three confirmed bachelors who are threatened with the loss of their cottages to larger families unless they get married within three months. Hilarity ensues as the town Council and local ladies have their own solutions to the problem.

While Pirrie first started acting in high school in Scotland, his first real acting role was in Juno and the Paycock by Sean O’Casey at SUNY Purchase in 1967. His late brother Alan introduced him to the Clan na Gael Players, and he has since appeared in roughly 25 plays with the group.

Mr. O’Callahan later joined his father- in-law “as a lark” in Clan na Gael. “I have been performing with Dave on and off since 1995,” Mr. O’Callahan said. “He is one of the most honest actors I have ever worked with. He has a quiet strength that you can always count on, on stage and in real life.” Seeing her dad and grandfather on stage inspired six-year-old Lila to give acting a try. “I always watch daddy and my Papa act, and I thought I could do it too,” she remarked.

Mr. Pirrie plays the officious Joseph Scanlon, Chairman of the Urban District Council. “He’s a self-described pillar of society,” Mr. Pirrie says. “He can be pompous and overbearing with the common people, but always has the best of intentions.” Dan O’Callahan brings Bartholemew Flanagan, the gregarious rent collector, to life. “He’s a little bit different than what I’m used to,” Mr. O’Callahan quips. “He is lively, excited and I would say above all, ambitious.” Lila O’Callahan loves her character, Young Nora, “I’m the little sister and I’m pretty tricky!”

Troubled Bachelors was written by A.J. Stanley and published in 1947. “For something that was originally written in the forties, it’s amazing that it’s still quite funny today,” says Mr. O’Callahan. “The interplay between the women and the bachelors is hilarious and great fun,” adds Mr. Pirrie.

As much as they enjoy their characters, they most enjoy acting together. “Working together is exciting,” says Mr. Pirrie. “I’ve worked with Dan several times and respect him as an actor and a father. Lila is my angel and gives me lots of hugs.”

Lila best sums up why they all love being part of Troubled Bachelors, “I like the play because it’s really funny and I think people will like it.”

Show times are April 20, 21 and 22 at 8:00 pm and April 23 at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $15 and can be reserved by calling 203-767-0117 or emailing betteleary@gmail.com. The venue is cabaret seating and drinks are available at the bar.

Troubled Bachelors is a presentation of The Clan na Gael players, presenting plays by or about the Irish since 1987. For more information, please visit www.gaconline.com.