Angela’s Ashes the Musical
Given its themes of rain, alcoholism, poverty and misery, how do you ensure Angela’s Ashes the Musical is not a gloomy whinge-fest? Francis O’Connor’s outstanding set is a start. This Pat Moylan production of Frank McCourt’s bestselling memoir is a visual treat, with ghostly, sepia hues lit beautifully by Sinéad McKenna.
With skilful staging, director Thom Southerland plunges us into the tragic world of the McCourts. The book and lyrics are by Paul Hurt and Adam Howell, and evoke Blood Brothers fused with Celtic melody. Young Frank (Eoin Cannon) recounts what happened after the family returned to Ireland from America in the 1930s and became destitute, forced to rely on the lecherous Laman Griffin, played perfectly by Mark O’Regan.
Frank’s dream to return to the US drives the narrative but it’s his spirited mother, Angela (Jacinta Whyte, above left), who dominates, belting out Howell’s power ballads. While Cannon as Frank lacks youthful exuberance, his beautiful voice compensates. He and Whyte engagingly lead a hardworking ensemble in this affectionate ode to the ghosts of Limerick past.
Bord Gais Energy, Dublin, Tue-Sat 7.30pm, Wed & Sat 2.30pm, €20-€44.50, conc €15, 0818 719377