Published in volume
The Wexford TrilogyA deeply moving tale about what lies beneath the surface of everyday lives, part of Billy Roche's Wexford Trilogy.
Artie, like his father before him, is the sacristan in the local church. Distanced from the rest of the community and caring for an elderly mother, he spends most of his time with father Pat and Dominic the young altar-server. That is, before Angela starts helping with the church flowers. The two begin a 'soaring' affair which awakens a passion in Artie. But someone tells Angela's husband what's going on and Artie is left to face life without her.
Billy Roche's play Belfry was first performed at the Bush Theatre, London, in November 1991.
REVIEWS:
"It is the sound of the church bell, tolling mournfully for these small, unfulfilled but rich lives, that you will take away with you."
The Guardian
"As riveting a piece as I've seen in ages."
The Times