Amateur drama group Four Esquires Productions has announced ambitions to record a full-length feature film, with the ultimate goal of shooting the project entirely in Kerry using a local cast and crew.

The group has been working on various side projects, including short films, and has successfully pitched a potential feature film script.
Before embarking on the film project, the group will return to the stage for a three-night summer run at Courtney’s Bar on College Street from Monday, June 22 to Wednesday, June 24.
The upcoming production features four new short comic plays focused on dark humour and off-beat reflections on human behaviour.
Tickets for the performances are available via Eventbrite, and the group has also launched a new Instagram page to provide updates on both the live shows and their film ambitions.
“The summer is here that means two things. Warm rain and Four Esquires Productions have four new theatrical plays at Courtneys,” said spokesperson Brian Bowler. “The group have been busy on side projects including short films and successfully pitching a potential feature film. The end goal is to have it shot in Kerry utilising Kerry cast and crew. But before they do that we are back with new material and performers. We encourage all to get tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Audiences can expect off beat reflections on human behaviour.”

Concerns raised over Killarney House weekly closures

Concerns have been raised following the revelation that the main visitor centre for Killarney National Park is closed two days every week during the peak summer tourism season.

Following a multi-million euro refurbishment, Killarney House officially opened as the national park’s visitor centre in July 2017.
The property was originally bequeathed to the State in 1998 following the death of Mary McShain, wife of US businessman John McShain.
Diarmaid Griffin, a local boat driver, guide, and a member of the Kerry Green Party, highlighted the issue after learning that the visitor centre had reduced its schedule from seven days a week to five. The facility is currently closed to the public every Tuesday and Wednesday.
“We are coming into the peak season of tourism in Killarney, with visitors from around the world coming to experience the lakes, mountains, and forests,” Mr Griffin said. “Surely, the visitors that arrive to our town on Tuesday or Wednesday deserve to learn about the history, geography, and ecology of Killarney National Park also. I would like the beautiful building to be open to the public seven days a week during the summer months.”
Mr Griffin confirmed that he has contacted Christopoher O’Sullivan, the Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to question the decision. He added that his email has been noted, but he is still awaiting a formal response.
The Killarney Advertiser contacted the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) for comment on the operational reasons behind the weekly closures, but no reply was received before going to press on Thursday afternoon.