Desire, a Playlist!
- birrtheatre
- Mar 25
- 4 min read
This year's theme has been inspiring artists across all art forms for as long as there have been artists. When the theme was revealed, some of us (I won't name names but they will recognise themselves and hopefully blush in the process) strutted across the office while singing "DesiiiiiiAYiiieeeeuuuurrrrre" as loud as they could in their best imitation of Bono.
That's why we thought we would explore our chosen theme in song and see what songwriters have had to say about it. Have a listen (and a sing-along) and let us know what song is missing from our playlist!
U2 - Desire
A bit of an obvious choice, maybe, but as it is Irish and not shying away from the drama we couldn't pass on this belter of a song. The lyrics explore what it takes to grab opportunities as they present themselves and what happens then, good or bad. And, as we know, this can apply to most of playwright's endeavours! wanting is a huge motivator for characters, but getting... what happens then when you get what you desire?
Sam Smith, Calvin Harris - Desire
The driving electronic pulsation created by Calvin Harris and the raw, simple and immediate lyrics sung by Sam Smith convey both the vulnerability of the person that succumbs to their wants and needs and the intoxicating power of desiring something that may not be good for them. A conundrum often explored in plays to great results as it creates tension between characters and internal dilemma for the protagonists, enriching the emotional landscape of stories.
Fontaines DC - Desire
With is dirty, grimy, slightly unhealthy video clip, carried by ethereal synths, pulsating layers and Grian Chatten's evocative vocals the song doesn't shy away from the dark side of Desire. The song explores its power to both elevate and haunt the human spirit. It can be a driving force, but it can also lead to disillusionment and self-deception. Desire is a driving force, but taken to its extreme, people can be consumed by their own desires, oblivious to the suffering and struggles of others.
Prefab Sprout - Desire As
What happens when Desire stays unfulfilled? Well, if you are Paddy McAloon, you write a song about it. about the perfect relationship that will never be and you explore the fragility of things that will never be with poignant lyrics such as "It's perfect as it stands, so why then crush it in your perfect hands?". What could have been, what will never be, hurts more than any actual loss. What if desire is for something so elusive that it will never be fulfilled?
Bjork & Anhoni - Dull Flame Of Desire
And slowly it smoulders and builds. Desire can be slow, nagging, ever present. "And through the downcast lashes, I see the dull flame of desire". Bjork & Anhoni's collaborations are always something to look out for, their voices complement each other, their artistic sensibilities add to each other and takes them to places that they wouldn't get to on their own. This Dull Flame of Desire is a prime example its a slow burner but a sure fire, like your next play...
Taylor Swift - The Great War
"But diesel is desire, you were playing with fire". This line appears in the second verse and suggests that the narrator's partner was reckless with their intense passion/desires, that acts as fuel ("diesel"), almost causing the relationship to end in a "Great War" of conflict. The song compares a tumultuous relationship to a war, using themes of jealousy, trust, and survival, often believed to be inspired by one of Swift's personal relationships.
Bonuses, here are a few more songs thematically linked with DESIRE (sometimes very loosely :)). Let us know in the comments which songs you'd like to add to the list and why, also, which song will give you some inspiration for your own short play?
With just 2 full weeks until of 7th of April deadline, now is the time to let your creativity flow and write that play!.
How It Works:
All submissions will be read and assessed by a panel of theatre professionals.
Three scripts will be selected for a week of mentoring and development in Birr (County Offaly), guided by Playwright and Screenwriter Eugene O’Brien.
Selected playwrights will refine their scripts, culminating in a rehearsed reading by professional actors at the festival finale.
Industry professionals will judge the final versions, and a winner will be chosen.
The "Best Play" Prize Includes:
Dramaturgy support with the literary department at The Abbey Theatre
A scholarship with Fishamble, the New Play Company
A Theatre Residency at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre in 2027
Are You Ready? We’re looking for short, powerful plays that sparkle with potential. Whether you’re a seasoned playwright or just starting out, we want to hear your voice.
Surprise us, move us, and let’s celebrate the power of desire together!
Take a look HERE for more information
What are you waiting for? Start writing today—your story could be the next to take the stage!
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