When actor Mikel Murfi began working with older people as part of a Bealtaine project, nobody knew how successful the collaboration would be. It was to be the inspiration for what is a very magical theatrical experience: ‘The Man in the Woman’s Shoes’ – a show that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the country (including twice in Roscommon).
The play has gone on, unsurprisingly, to win numerous awards, touring extensively in Ireland since 2012. It has played twice in Manhattan and ran for three weeks at The Tricycle Theatre, London in 2016.
But the story doesn’t end there, because Murfi has taken time to develop a new companion show, entitled ‘I Hear You and Rejoice’ and having seen it, Roscommon Arts Centre are thrilled to report that it is equally as uplifting, moving, joyous and bursting with affection as the original. Now, as part of its very first national tour, ‘I Hear You and Rejoice’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre for one performance only on Tuesday, April 4th and it comes highly recommended.
The play tells the story of Pat Farnon, the cobbler and all-round contented man, who late in life marries the redoubtable football referee Kitsy Rainey and what happens thereafter. A tender and joy-filled account of a most unlikely marriage – this is a match made in heaven, in more ways than one! Meet Huby Patterson and Magic Mick as well as Sylvie, Eugene and Tony Cleary – the amazing no instrumental man in what promises to be a show that you will be talking about long after you leave the theatre!
Written and performed by Mikel Murfi, this is a theatre highlight not to be missed.
Booking now at Roscommon Arts Centre on 090-6625824/www.roscommonartscentre.ie.
