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THE IRISH...AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY (2010) Send This Review to a Friend
One can celebrate a fresh revival of Frank McCourt’s delightful musical, once again spiritedly directed by Charlotte Moore and produced by Ciarán O’Reilly at the Irish Repertory Theatre. The work combines a loving and informative view of Irish history, especially in America, and a charmingly presented compendium of traditional, illustrative Irish songs. As with past presentations, this incarnation provides a warm mix of sentiment and sheer fun.
Two holdovers from the 2001 cast, the wonderfully expressive Terry Donnelly and the rich-voiced Ciarán Sheehan, help do justice to the production, now also strongly abetted by Kerry Conte and Gary Troy, with Patrick Shields turning in fine work on violin, mandolin and bodhran, and Kevin B. Winebold, as well as being part of the ensemble and musical director, skillfully contributing on piano and accordion.
Virtually everyone gets to be highlighted. Sheehan injects new beauty and passion into the chestnut “Danny Boy.” Donnelly excels in such numbers as “Carrickfergus” “I’ve Got Rings on My Fingers,” and “Finnegan’s Wake.” But the main effect is the impressive way in which all solo spots fit into the work as a company, which even provides a show business side of Irish history celebrating George M. Cohan with “Give My Regards to Broadway,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “Over There” numbers.
I also especially liked “Paddy on the Railway” and “Erie Canal,” both reflecting the working class aspect of Irish immigration. There are 37 songs, either on their own or as part of a medley, that make up this rich trove of material, spiced with McCourt’s narrative thread. The show is both a history lesson and enjoyable entertainment all wrapped into one, thanks to the cast, contributions by the musicians, a helping of snappy choreography by Barry McNabb, original musical arrangements by Rusty Magee, Set and projection design by Shawn Lewis, costume deign by David Toser, lighting design by Michael Gottlieb and the loving overall direction by Moore, who clearly has an understanding affinity with and fondness for the work. At the Irish Repertory Theatre, 132 West 22nd Street, $55-$65. Phone: 212-727-2737.
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