Nóra Ní Anluain Fay, a Dublin woman, found inspiration for her new GAA-themed Dublin Fringe show, Ham Sandwiches and Discipline, after watching Pat Spillane on RTÉ’s The Sunday Game. The show is a humorous tribute to all things GAA, incorporating elements of dance, disco, and comedy.
Nóra shared that watching Pat Spillane on The Sunday Game a few years ago left a lasting impression on her. She was struck by his dramatic and flamboyant hand movements, which reminded her of US dance legend Martha Graham. This inspired her to create her show, which delves into the world of GAA, from mammies cheering on the sidelines to eating Tayto in Croke Park.
Using the structure of the GAA as a backdrop, Nóra explores what it means to grow up in Ireland, whether one played the sport or simply observed its presence in society. The show captures the essence of Irishness through the lens of the GAA, with its sensory experiences evoking memories of school matches, teenage discos in GAA clubs, and other significant moments.
Having trained with Ireland’s leading youth dance and theatre companies and studied contemporary dance and choreography in the Netherlands, Nóra brings a unique perspective to the stage. She returned to Dublin last September with a desire to create a piece that reflects Irish identity and the cultural significance of the GAA.
Reflecting on her time studying abroad, Nóra recalled how watching the All-Ireland Final with international students highlighted the deep-rooted passion that the Irish have for the sport. The shared experience of cheering for a GAA team brought them together and emphasized the sense of Irishness that permeates such events.
Initially hesitant about combining dance and sport on stage, Nóra found that the fusion became an ode to Irish culture and identity. Through Ham Sandwiches and Discipline, she aims to celebrate the unique spirit of the GAA and its impact on Irish society.
The Dublin Fringe Festival, running from September 7 to 22, will feature Nóra’s show at The Lir Academy on Pearse Street from September 8-11. This marks a significant moment for Nóra, as she fulfills her dream of showcasing her work at the prestigious festival. Her innovative approach to storytelling promises to resonate with audiences and offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of sport, dance, and Irishness.