FESTIVAL REVIEW: Love Trumps Everything/How We Glow, Teachers Club, 36 Parnell Square, runs until Saturday 7.30, Saturday matinee 2.30. Four plays by US women emerge from Trump's version of America in a defiant, engaging and entertaining programme of great writing from female playwrights. It is easy to see why Carolyn Gage is one of America's foremost lesbian writers. Her Calamity Jane Sends A Message to her Daughter treats us to a no holds barred revelation of Calamity's cross dressing life in order to work, live and survive as she chooses is enlightening. In the more than capable hands of a phlegmatic Maria Blaney who places her in the gutter but full of fighting spirit. There is a poignancy in the indomitable central character who was an iconic pioneer for US feminism. Directed by Philippa Alford and beautifully written and delivered. How to Get Married in 6 Steps and 17 Years written and performed by Kathleen Warnock is an autobiographical short play that tells the story of love and marriage in New York State. It is heartwarming, hopeful, political and impactful and well delivered. Made in Heaven by Candace Perry is a long short that deals with matches made in Heaven. What a surprise awaits in the happy ever afterlife when God's promise is an eternal life with the one you truly love. Prejudice, opportunity, social and legal influences may determine your love life here on earth but the Gods have other ideas. Two fine performances from Lia Monahan and Dolores Hughes directed by Maria Blaney lifted this not to be underestimated piece that unpacks prejudice with tenderness, insight and humour. Verbatim testimonials from teenagers in a New York high school in 2015 are harvested for the rich text of How We Glow. Created by Jamila Humphrie and Emily Schorr Lesnick, with the sources successors and young people from BeLongTo this is an informative, educational piece which is a rare opportunity for young people to express their own identity and for us to listen. The charming piece is peppered with impressive performances from the skilful teen communicators and educates as much as it entertains and impresses. A very engaging and strong programme of contemporary theatre. AO'B
