MARCH 2006

'I prefer to come to Donegal'

British born actor Ralph Fiennes, who was nominated for several awards for his 2005 film 'The Constant Gardener' decided to spend the weekend in Gweedore rather than attend the glitzy 78th Academy Awards.

Ralph spent Sunday at the scenic Ostan Gweedore Hotel in West Donegal in the company of playwright Brian Friel, and enjoyed the Donegal scenery rather than the hustle and bustle of the Oscars.

He is at present appearing in the lead role of Brian Friel's play 'The Faith Healer' which is running in The Gate Theatre, Dublin, until the end of March. Michael Colgan, Gate Theatre producer and friends, Frank O'kane and Richard Lyons, joined him in Gweedore. Fiennes and his party, picked up Brian Friel from his home in Moville, and arrived at the Gweedore Hotel by helicopter, where they were greeted by owner, Mrs Phyllis Boyle and her son, Manager Charlie Boyle.

Ralph, who had been in Donegal before, said, when asked why he came to Donegal instead of going to the Oscars, 'The film is nominated but I haven't been. I preferred to come to Donegal instead'.

Hotel owner Mrs Phyllis Boyle said they were delighted with his choice of venue. "We are very privileged and delighted he chose to come and stay with us rather than go to the Oscars. It's really great for us and for Donegal."

Actor Ralph Fiennes (left) with Frank O'Kane, Brian Friel,
Charlie Boyle, Hotel Manager and Michael Colgan

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