Irish Repertory Theater

Set in 1962, this classic bittersweet comedy revolves around the young Gar O’Donnell on the eve of his departure from Ireland to America. Gar’s heartache from losing his girlfriend to a successful businessman propels him to accept an invitation to go and live with an aunt in Philadelphia. Despite the wild fantasies of what life in America might hold, and his yearning to escape the tedium of small town Ballybeg, a kind word from his taciturn father could change his mind. 

This rich heartfelt play comes from the author of such seminal works as Dancing at Lughnasa, Translations, Aristocrats, and Give Me You Answer Do. Born in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, in 1929, Brian Friel is Ireland’s major playwright. His distinction has grown in recent years with dramatic successes in Ireland, London, and New York.  PHILADELPHIA, HERE I COME! was first produced on Broadway in 1964 by David Merrick and ran for 326 performances. 

The Irish Repertory Theatre is the recent recipient of the 2005 Lucille Lortel “Outstanding Body of Work” Award. 

Creators
Ciarán O’Reilly (Director) David Raphel (Scenic Design)
David Toser (Costume Design)
Brian Nason (Lighting Design)
Written by: Brian Friel

Cast
Paddy Croft
Michael Fitzgerald
James Kennedy
Edwin Owens
James Stevens
Tessa Klein
Gil Rogers
Helena Carroll
John Leighton
Geddeth Smith
Tim Ruddy
Joe Berlangero
Darren Connolly
Leo Leyden. 

Audience:  Philadelphia, Here I Come is appropriate for children aged 12 and over.  Children under 4 years of age will not be admitted into the Irish Repertory Theater.

Run time:  TBA

Show Times