My husband and I had the great privilege of seeing Brian Friel's The Freedom of the City on this past weekend. It was an outstanding production from a theatre company that seems to specialize in outstanding productions. From O'Neill to Friel to Shaw to delighful musicals like Finian's Rainbow, there is simply nowhere in New York City that comes close to the consistent quality that this company offers. We support this group on an annual basis and will continue to do so. They represent the best.
The Irish Repertory Theatre provides exceptional dramatic, comedic, and musical experiences. The intimate space allows for a wonderful, and very different experience. The theater staff is professional, courteous, and especially accomodating to people with physical disabilities. It is ALWAYS a joy to attend a production there!
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My husband and I have been attending the extraordinary productions at the Irish Rep for many years.We have introduced many friends and relatives to this marvelous experience. My husband was using a manual wheelchair for a while, when walking or standing for any length of time was impossible. We were accomodated with compassion, grace and sensitivity. My husband has since lost both his legs and while we have NOT attended shows recently, we were, at our last visit, treated with the same sensitivity.I let a young man in the lobby know that we were there, and he got their folding ramp, came down the street to help me get my husband out of our van, set up the ramp again at the theater door and showed us all the way to our seats. Two front row seats were removed to accomodate my husband's motorized wheelchair.We would attend more regularly if my husband's hearing and vision losses were not so bad as they are. We have UPGRADED our membership donations as a result.
I have consistently been enriched by the theatrical productions I have attended. For me theatre of this quality contributes to the quality of my life. Their relatively humble beginning was also accompanied by talent and a laser focus on their mission. They believed that the Irish theatre tradition had made a major contribution to drama in Ireland, in America and around the world. That tradition, they knew, deserved to be shared in the great theatre culture of New York City with a dedication full of respect, knowledge, talent and integrity. I and thousands of New Yorkers have been blessed with the resulting quality of Irish theatre both old and new in a beautiful diversity of content. This tireless hard work deserves all the support and gratitude we can provide.
When you're an actor you can only hope that you'll be proud to be part of a production,to be in the company of fine actors,to be treated with respect and support by the creative team and to be playing for an audience that is used to good theatre.All this and a great deal more is what I experienced at Irish Rep. New York is lucky to have them!
For the past several years, I have attended most of the productions offered by the Irish Repertory Theatre. I continue to go there because of their wonderfully interesting choice of plays, the consistent excellence of the actors, and the amazing creativity and imagination of their productions in that tiny space with limited financial resources. But even after years of being impressed with their work, nothing could have prepared me for the brilliance of their production of "Emperor Jones". I saw it a couple of years ago in a huge production at the National Theatre in London; at the time, I thought it was pretty good, but by comparison it didn't even come close to the extraordinary experience that Irish Rep gave us! If this is what they can do on a shoestring, just imagine what they could do with sufficient financial support!
It's a true artist's community and every time one works there the family gets larger. They really go above and beyond just producing theatre. It's a welcoming and nurturing home.
I am of Irish ancestry and really appreciate this opportunity to see Irish plays, often with Irish actors, beautifully performed in this small, intimate setting. Last year works of Joyce that are not often performed were read or played. I have been attending performances over the years and always feel en-ergized by the authenticity of the performance and the sense that they are speaking directly to me.
We have been going to shows at the Irish Rep for 8-9 years. Probably seen at least 25-30 shows. ONLY ONE of those was a show we didn't thoroughly enjoy, and they were responsive to our criticism. Compare this to the recent offerings on Broadway, and you'll see why we love it.
The Irish Repertory Theatre is arguably the best Irish theatre anywhere. I have been a patron and sometime participant for over 20 years.The quality of acting, directing and production values are always top drawer.They also make courageous choices and always deliver the goods. In my opinion, it is a National Treasure
The Irish Rep never fails to inspire. This intimate setting is home to some of the best theater in all of New York... polished, intelligent, provocative, and always entertaining. The highlight of this year's season for me was The Emperor Jones—a glittering production that featured the prodigious talent of John Douglas Thompson. What a thrill!
My husband and I went to a show at the Irish Repertory Theatre during our honeymoon, and it was a wonderful experience. The theatre is intimate, and the shows are of the highest quality. The next time we are in New York, we will be sure to see whatever is playing there. I've remained on their mailing list specifically to recommend upcoming shows to our friends. It's good to know such a place exists.
As a professional actor one of my most rewarding experiences has been as a member of the acting company at the Irish Rep. I have also attended many productions as an enthusiastic audience member and a financial contributor. On all levels I have been embraced warmly, welcomed as a member of the "family". All the productions have been superb with the recent EMPEROR JONES reaching extraordinary heights of brilliance, innovation, and imagination. Unforgettable!
We have attended many performances by this group and each one has been of superb quality in terms of the acting, directing, costumes, sets,choice of play, etc.
I have been going for more than 20 years. In the beginning you needed to follow them around in make shift theater spaces. It was terrific when they got their permanent home as it was so much easier to regularly get to see them. I would guess that I have missed no more than 5 productions in that period of time. Consistently interesting plays with good to breathtaking performances. I can say that if I were to pick the top ten performances I have been to in a 40 year span of going to the theater in NY and London, at least one or two would have come from the Irish Rep.
We used to go to one or two performances every year at the Irish Rep and enjoyed them immensely, but since I became a wheelchair user, it has become too frustrating to continue. Their front door is inaccessible, they do not keep a ramp out, there is no easy way to contact them about putting it out even when they are called in advance about doing so, and the door saddle is a huge impediment. Wheelchair users sit right where actors jump on and off the stage and it is uncomfortable. Attempts to get the Irish Rep to do things differently have fallen on deaf ears so we no longer go and I do not want to donate anymore to an inaccessible theater when there are others that I could donate to.
This theater is one of the best off Broadway experiences for thinking New Yorkers. We've seen two plays since learning of the theater in the past year or so and each time have marvelled at the productions. In both cases, they managed to transform a performance into an immersive experience replete with creative sets and transfixing actors. Most recently, The Emperor Jones, had sets that included puppets (we're not talking Elmo here) that were incredibly sophisticated and visually arresting. We only wish productions with many times their budget could be even a fourth as creative.
This is the biggest little theatre in town! Every performance is top drawer. Just choose the type of performance that interests you, and have a wonderful evening...guaranteed. Another plus,,,easy parking.
I have had the pleasure of working with the Irish Rep as an actor and have also attended many performances there. My experiences on both counts have been wonderful. The company is run by people with a strong awareness of community and a true love for what they do. There is always a great sense of family and fun coupled with a high level of professionalism and mutual respect towards colleagues and clientele. The Irish Rep's work reaches beyond its physical space in a most positive way.
My husband and I saw "The Emperor Jones" at the Irish Repertory Theatre Company in October of 2009. We are not New York residents, but we made a special pilgrimage to this production. John Douglas Thompson was amazing, and the whole production was brilliantly creative... great, great theater in a congenial setting!
The Irish Rep is such a wonderful place to see theatre. Certainly my favorite Off-Broadway venue, it's always so warm and welcoming to come to, a real family atmosphere, while the performances on stage combine the best in skilled storytelling and theatrical ambition. Whether it's taking chances on new material, such as in the recent "When I Was God," bravely bringing fresh life to classics, such as in their recent outstanding production of "The Emperor Jones," or just plain being the best place to see Irish drama done richly and truthfully, as in their recent moving "Aristocrats," the Irish Rep is unique, vital and leading the way for other theatres to follow. I know I never miss a show there.
Having acted in college, I was pleased when I saw the announcement of a produciton of a play I had been in as a young man. IRT's production of Philadelphia Here I Come was one of the more pleasurable theatrical experiences I have had in a lifetime of theatre going. The sensative and moving production had such a quiet charm and a grand feel for "irish working class" without ever giving into lucky charms stereotypes. The cast was well matched, the design spare and effective and the direction invisible in a way that made one feel as if you were peering through the window of the house to see a day in the life of the occupants. Fine theatre all the way round.
I still remember the JOY and visual beauty of one of the first IRC productions "GRANDCHILD OF KINGS" I certainly wished them well then but never dreamed that almost 20 years later they would be able to maintain that JOY and visual originality and beauty. Be able to establish a true neighborhood theatre community of such high quality. As a professional actor I am always impressed by the consistently high artistic standards. As an audience member I am impressed and comforted by the acknowedgement of the importance of the Theatre Company to the neighborhood. The welcome from neighborhood restaurants and other establishments is a real perk.One thing that really sets the IRC apart form other NYC companies is the extraordinary imaginative use of a very small awkward space.It is thrilling to see how they have solved the "problem" uniquely to such a wide variety of plays and styles.
I Love the IRTC..I have become a member because I Am SO impressed with their productions. I Don't know how Charlotte Moore and Ciaran O'Rielly do it. They are true artists. You can't help be affected by their professional productions and their respect for PURE THEATRE. I'm amazed at their energy level. No sooner does one wonderful production close then another is waiting in the wings. Through the years, I Have gotten a favorite actress..Terry Donnelly. If I See Terry's name, I Immediately request tickets. Whatever production this wonderful actress takes her hand to, it is always brilliant.
Wonderful, authentic theatre. If you've never been, you've missed out. When I walk into the Irish Rep, I feel at home. When the lights go out and the show comes up, I feel transported.
I have seen the last 4 productions of the Irish Theatre Company and every one of them have been superb. "The Emperor Jones" was incredible, better than I ever expected - fantastic acting! I'm looking forward to seeing all their future productions. Even if I'm not familiar with the play, I will see it because I know this company will do a great job.
Going to the theater here is always a rich experience. The acting is very good and they do wonders in the limited physical space they have.
This is what a theatre experience should be....excellent productions..fair pricing ....great seating...no problem parking...If you can't get to Ireland to attend a show..this is the nearest best thing.
I saw Emperor Jones in November. It was my first time at the Irish Repertory Theatre. This was an amazing production, with exceptional acting, creative staging, and an overall riveting production. I look forward to attending future productions,
I have enjoyed the Irish Repertory Theatre for many, many years. My first experience was "Grandchild of Kings" by Sean O'Casey. I have not lived in New York for several years now, but, I do try to see one of their productions every time I am in town. I introduced my husband to the Irish Rep and he enjoys seeing their shows as much as I do. As others have stated, there are no bad seats and definitely no bad performances.
I have been both a subscriber and supporter of The Irish Repertory Theater for over ten years now and they never fail to disappoint. The variety of productions is amazing. From musicals to the classics, the array of talent and professionalism is staggering. The intimate theater envelops the audience and provides a thrilling experience. I love everything about the Irish Rep. I hope they go on forever!
What a wonderful theater! This year - Emperor Jones and Ernest in Love - some of the best theater in town this year. In the small, no-bad-seat venue, one could not ask for anything better. Rake is great - never anyone in front of you blocking your view. And...the staff....so accomodating, eager to help resell tickets. YES RESELL. This theater is a treasure. I can't wait to see Candida.
I have had some amazing theatre experiences going to shows at Irish Rep. The work is always first rate. They acting and directing is Broadway caliber and the design work has the look of a much bigger budgeted theatre. Irish Rep is a jewel in the NY theatre scene.
I LOVE everything about the IRISH REPERTORY THEATRE - it's flawless execution of great plays: casting, acting, costumes, musical arrangements, scenery, lighting, choreography, and staff. The quality of the patrons it attracts is especially delightful, too. The last show I ushered was "Ernest in Love", this past Sunday (February 7, 2010). I heard about the glowing review that the show had gotten, but I went thinking that no show would match such a review, not for me. Happily, I was wrong. The show itself ("Ernest in Love"), the production, and the whole experience was over-the-top superb! By means of comparison, please note that I recently (two weeks ago, for the first time) saw "Wicked". With a wonderful 2nd-row-center Mezzanine seat, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The clever story was new to me and I loved learning that the 'wicked' witch was not only NOT wicked, but that she "lived happily ever after". The performances, sound system, and costumes, all was tops. Again, for Broadway, it was great! Nevertheless, "Ernest in Love" was - by far! -- the better show and experience. At the IRISH REP, I was able to catch every facial nuance and I could distinctly understand ALL the wonderful lyrics. The show was more than just (just?) a clever story. It was the product of brilliant collaboration, in intimate and comfortable space, for the benefit of the very best audience experience. Yes indeed, all-in-all, in my humble opinion, "Ernest in Love" was much better than "Wicked" because it was produced at the Irish Repertory Theatre. Who am I? I am someone who selectively attends 25-45 shows per year. I highly recommend full support for and frequent attendance at the IRISH REPERTORY THEATRE... Box Office: (212) 727-2737
Irish Repertory Theatre Co is one of the very best in NYC, not only for the selection & quality of their productions, but for the extra special Yeats Festival. The depth of this Festival provided an appreciation of Yeats that was the highlight of my theatre year. I would mention that many other fine theatre companies are included in that comparison. Shakespeare usually tops my list. Irish Rep has my highest respect and thanks.
I very appreciate the theater's commitment to presenting outstanding theater and the care with which it mounts its productions. i also like being in the physical space of the theater.
The Irish Repertory Theatre is committed to presenting a high-quality, professional season each and every year. Their productions never disappoint and add untold value to our community's theatrical culture. One of the most solidly impressive theatre companies in NYC, and that's saying something!
I have been a board member for more than ten years and have watched with admiration as Ciaran and Charlotte have built this theatre into one of New York's special gems. The steady excellence of each play presented has caused the newspapers to go from tiny reviews to front page reviews. I am proud to be a member of this organization. My greatest wish is that, despite this economy, we be able to complete our capital campaign so that we can own our theatre as many NY non-profits do and make some much needed renovations.
I've attended only a few performances at the Irish Rep and really enjoyed them. I don't go to everything they produce, only what appeals to me, so in that sense my comments may not be generally representative. However, with that in mind, it's a wonderfully small, intimate theater. I've sat all the way in the back in the last row and it still doesn't matter because the theater is so small. The only seats I would be reluctant to get are the ones on the stage itself (yes, they have seats on the stage!) because they are off to one side, and though you're awfully close to the action, you don't see the stage from the front. In the shows I've seen the acting has been outstanding -- absolutly on a par with what you would see at a full Broadway production. When I've seen musicals there they've been very good too Obviously, they don't have anything like an orchestra, just a small ensemble (trio, quartet or something like that), but it doesn't matter because the intimacy of the production more than makes up for the small sound).
We are always delighted by Irish Repertory Theatre productions. The acting, direction, sets and costumes are superb. The intimacy adds greatly to the experience. What the Irish Rep produces on the small stage is amazing – sometimes with musicians! This is Off-Broadway at its best.
I saw one of the Yeats cycle series, and a reading of a play about Yeats, and both were wonderful productions!
I've seen several performances at the Irish Rep and every time, it is a wonderful experience. I particularly love seeing musicals in the intimate space. Somehow they manage to balance the instruments and the voices and there is no need to use microphones. I can't think of any other theatre, in this day and age, that can get away with that. It is MAGICAL. You're transported to another time when simply the voice was enough. No engineering the sound or boosting the volume through microphones. Simply the sound of the incredible voices. It's a wonderful experience.
I have been a member for over 10 years and have brought family and friends to the Irish Rep productions - all rave reviews! They are talented, professional and hold a very important role in keeping Irish theater alive and current. Their productions have won every top award available to off - Broadway Theater. They make me proud to be Irish. Charlotte Moore and Ciran O'Reilly should receive medals for their dedication to this Irish art form and for their ongoing successes! If you are not a member now - join today and support this amazing jewel of a theater.
I am an actress living in NYC. Over the years I have seen dozens of plays and always been thrilled by the experiences. Some plays are so Irish that I felt immersed in a different culture.
I am a great fan of the Irish Rep theater & attend almost every presentation. It is a wonderful way to preserve the rich Irish culture. My grandfather emigrated to American in 1873 and I am a Irish citizen myself and am studying the language. It would be nice to have some plays in the irish language
Don't know if there's much to tell. I am the son of a Kerry woman who had approached you with one of my plays, but was given no response. I have published one play which is presently being vended on BN.com, Amazon.com etc (:Carla and the Wolves), as well as two novels and several short stories. I have several "Irish" plays "Molly on the Shore", "Rory's Ghost" (Irish-American), "Ruskin: a Tragic Laughter", "The Burning Question..of the Diary of Lord Byron" (English)Anyway, much success with the Irish Theater. John C. Maxfield
The Emperor Jones was so outrageously outstanding that I saw it 3 times. It wasn't only the extraordinary acting of John Duncan Thompson, but the creative set, costumes, dance, music, drums, hums, and so much more, that it brought me back twice after first seeing it. Hooray for the Irish Rep Theatre Company!
We love the Irish Rep!!! We saw "Earnest in Love" last Sunday (1/31/10) and highly recommend it. However, our hands-down favorite is "A Child's Christmas in Wales." We've seen both your upstairs and downstairs productions -- each wonderful in its own way. My wife and I met in Great Britain and had the priviledge of hearing Gareth Lloyd Evans, the drama critic on the London Times, do a reading of this Dylan Thomas piece. These are the things that memories are made of! Your holiday production of ...Wales brings back fond, fond memories. Please keep up such wonderful work!