The Irish... and How They Got That Way

A combination of primary documents—letters, journal entries, and newspaper reports—paints a grim picture of the lives of Irish men and women during the 19th century in the first half of Frank McCourt's "The Irish…and How They Got That Way." These spoken-word passages are augmented by a host of songs that range from jaunty to dour, from familiar ("Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ra" and "Erie Canal") to relatively obscure ("Shores of Amerikay"). As the subjects covered in the words and music include the Irish potato famine and the bigotry and hostility that accompanied the arrival of Irish immigrants in America, it makes for some somber theatergoing. Though the second act includes many true crowd pleasers (including four by George M. Cohan), there's an overall one-note reserve to the evening, which inspires respect and admiration but never total enjoyment.

Theatergoers' distance from the piece stems not only from the material but also from Charlotte Moore's largely static staging. While there is some exuberant choreography from Barry McNabb, the performers, more often than not, are stationary on the stage, where set designer Shawn Lewis has piled high a panoply of steamer trunks and old suitcases. Ultimately, the overall effect is that the show often feels like a lecture that's supported by song.

Thankfully, the performers often lighten and enliven the material, particularly Ciarán Sheehan, who uses his gossamer Irish tenor to blissful effect, not only in the ubiquitous "Danny Boy" but also in the little-known "Skibbereen." Similarly, whenever Gary Troy takes center stage, his impish way with a song (and dance) thoroughly beguiles. And though Kerry Conte and Terry Donnelly provide merely solid work, pianist and musical director Kevin B. Winebold gives the show comic flair, particularly as he leads the company in "No Irish Need Apply," in which humor and bitterness blend terrifically, vividly illuminating the duality of the Irish spirit.


Presented by and at the Irish Repertory Theatre, 132 W. 22nd St., NYC. July 22–Sept. 26. Wed.–Sat., 8 p.m.; Wed., Sat., and Sun., 3 p.m. (212) 727-2737 or www.irishrep.org.