Plays and musicals that celebrate the Irish

St. Patrick’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural celebration observed annually on March 17th. While Ireland is the home of St. Patrick’s Day, it is celebrated in many parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. At Theatre Haus, we love the Irish, and with so many plays and musicals that explore Irish culture and tradition, we thought we’d compile a list of the most notable productions.

1. “Once”: This Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of an Irish musician who falls in love with a Czech immigrant in Dublin. The musical features a score of Irish-inspired songs and explores themes of love, loss, and the power of music.
2. “The Plough and the Stars”: This play, written by Irish playwright Sean O’Casey, is set during the Easter Rising in Dublin in 1916. The play explores the lives of working-class Irish people and their experiences during a pivotal moment in Irish history.
3. “The Cripple of Inishmaan”: This play, written by Irish playwright Martin McDonagh, tells the story of a young man with a physical disability who dreams of leaving his small island in Ireland. The play explores themes of community, disability, and the power of storytelling.
4. “The Beauty Queen of Leenane”: This play, also written by Martin McDonagh, tells the story of a mother and daughter who are locked in a bitter and dysfunctional relationship in rural Ireland. The play explores themes of family, love, and the power of tradition.
5. “Juno and the Paycock”: This play, written by Irish playwright Sean O’Casey, is set during the Irish War of Independence and tells the story of a working-class family in Dublin. The play explores the impact of the war on the family and their struggles to survive in a time of upheaval.

These productions are just a few examples of the many plays and musicals that explore Irish culture and tradition. They offer a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Ireland and provide audiences with an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and struggles of the Irish people. Whether it’s a musical about love and music or a play about the impact of war on a family, these productions offer a unique and captivating perspective on Irish culture and history.