Irish Rep presents the world premiere of this new history-based drama about the political maneuvering of three passionate men in '50s Ireland regarding postnatal and children's health care. More…
In 1948, 33-year-old Dr. Noel Browne was elected to the Irish Parliament. Handsome, intense, arrogant, and unpredictable, he possessed little political skill but a burning ambition to rid Ireland of the scourge of tuberculosis, which had wiped out most of his family. Upon the introduction of his “Mother & Child Scheme”—a plan to provide free postnatal care to women and children under the age of 16—he quickly found himself at odds with the “Man of Destiny,” party leader and ex-Irish Republican Army chief, Sean McBride, and the ruthless, obsessive tactician, Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. John Charles McQuaid.
See it if Kirwin's docu-drama about post Irish social politics it too cluncky to have the potent impact it should. Monologue style kills dramatic pace
Don't see it if Moore's leaden direction slows already wordy nature of piece. Keating's Archbishop ignites whenever he's on stage which alas is not enough
See it if you have an interest in Irish history and/or are particularly intrigued by health care issues.
Don't see it if you are looking for dramatic conflict. The differing opinions are diluted by the use of monologues, rather than by conflicting dialogue.
See it if you enjoy a historical drama, relevant to today's discussions, in an intimate theatre.
Don't see it if you seek escapist comedy or dance numbers.
See it if Will learn about an unfamiliar character in recent Irish history. Still relevant political discussion
Don't see it if Feel monologue laden, talky and undramatic
See it if You like to see a play about a serious issue facing our country. It about the politics of health care and how things haven't changed.
Don't see it if You don't like serious historical drama.
See it if A small, elegant production of a page of Irish history that twines politics and church. Partly overly didactic, especially when the main...
Don't see it if ...character addresses the audience, but also inspired & revelatory of a system that substitutes piety for good works.