Talented Kildare actress to bring powerful story to Galway Film Fleadh
The film will screen on Thursday, July 9, at 9.30am
A talented Kildare filmmaker is set to make her mark on the international stage when her new short film Macha receives its worldwide premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh next month.
Niamh Mahony, a writer and leading actress from Clane, Co Kildare has created the Irish narrative short which explores endometriosis, women's health and the often frustrating experience of not being listened to by medical professionals. The film will screen on Thursday, July 9, at 9.30am as part of the prestigious festival programme.
Macha blends contemporary Ireland with Irish mythology, drawing inspiration from Macha, the ancient Irish goddess associated with war, fertility and strength. Through this unique approach, the film highlights the physical and emotional impact of endometriosis, a condition that affects thousands of women across Ireland.
According to Endometriosis Ireland, an estimated 200,000 people in Ireland are living with the condition, although the true figure may be significantly higher due to under-diagnosis. Research suggests it takes an average of nine years for sufferers to receive a diagnosis, with many reporting that their symptoms are dismissed or misunderstood.
The condition can cause chronic pelvic pain, severe menstrual pain, fatigue, infertility and pain during or after intercourse. Despite its prevalence, specialist treatment remains limited, forcing some Irish patients to travel abroad for surgery and care.
Mahony's film seeks to give voice to those experiences while encouraging greater awareness and understanding of a condition that affects one in ten people assigned female at birth, and potentially even more in certain groups.
The Galway Film Fleadh is regarded as one of Ireland's most important film festivals and has served as a launch pad for many Irish filmmakers and actors over the years. For Mahony, the screening represents a significant milestone and an opportunity to bring an important conversation to a wider audience.
With its blend of mythology, drama and social commentary, Macha is expected to resonate strongly with audiences and shine a spotlight on an issue that continues to affect thousands of women in Kildare and throughout Ireland.