The Peacock Café in the Abbey Theatre was packed on the morning of 18th January with 30 members of the Trinity Retirement Association who were enjoying a coffee before the backstage tour commenced. We began in the foyer of the Abbey where our excellent guide gave us some background on the building itself and its history. We then proceeded into the auditorium and onto the stage for a close look at the set and also the various props used for the performance. We divided into two groups as there were so many of us and then went backstage, looking at the wardrobe room and the make-up room and other areas. There were many portraits and paintings on the walls both backstage and in the foyer areas most of which had a story attached. Our guides took the time to explain things in detail and to answer all our questions. Many thanks to our guides in the Abbey for a most enjoyable tour.