What better time than St. Patrick’s Day to enjoy a hearty corned beef and cabbage dinner, a riotous parade of frivolity all dressed in green and a merry musical about the Emerald Isle. Thankfully Playhouse on Park in West Hartford is providing a charming version of Frank McCourt’s love letter to his homeland in “The Irish and How They Got That Way” until Sunday, March 30 for your enjoyment and edification.
Author and playwright Frank McCourt has woven the history, traditions and music of his people through letters, paintings, journals, folk songs and memories to create a charming and ironic portrait of 150 years of the Irish struggle to succeed in America. Come enjoy songs like “Danny Boy,” "Finnegan’s Wake, “Galway Bay,” “Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye,” “Mother Machree," “No Irish Need Apply.” “Who Threw the Overalls in Mrs. Murphy’s Chowder” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag” to mention a few.
With laughter and emotion and sentiment, three men and three women, Joe Boover, Victoria Chaieb, Elleon Dobias, Josh Karam, Jack Murphy and Katrien van Riel take you on a journey thanks to Frank McCourt’s memories in both story and songs showing both his wit and his pride. Called "a fiting tribute to everything Irish,” you will note the blarney, the magic of leprechauns, the toll of the Potato Famine, the pride of everyone from James Cagney and George M. Cohan to John F. Kennedy, even if you can’t taste the flavor of a pint of Guinness, The Irish migrant story is captured with reverence revealing the injustices suffered both in the homeland and in their adopted country, all with honesty and humor, knowing in your heart that being Irish is not an easy fate. Each of the actors is skilled at a slew of instruments from guitars to accordions, complete with Irish jigs.
For tickets ($27.50 and up, with a special Guinness night Tuesday, March 25 to taste the brew) call Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road, West Hartford at 860-523-5900, ext. 10 or online at playhouseonpark.org. Performances are Wednesday at 7:30 p.m, Thursday at 2 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. with a talkback after.
Even if your name isn’t Danny, Paddy,Timothy or Shawn, everyone is Irish thanks to Frank McCourt and the “honey lips” of these enthusiastic and energetic performers who wish a Top o’ the morning to you.
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