In the heart of Toronto’s vibrant theatre scene, the Bealtaine Irish Theatre Festival is set to captivate audiences with a compelling lineup of performances celebrating Irish culture and storytelling. Among the standout productions is the critically acclaimed solo show, Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar, making its much-anticipated Canadian debut.
A Journey Through Truth and Lies
Written and performed by Dublin-based actor and writer Tom Moran, this one-man show delves deep into the complexities of honesty, identity, and self-perception. Moran, a self-proclaimed people-pleaser, candidly explores his own struggles with truth-telling, weaving a narrative that is both humorous and profoundly moving. The performance invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences with deception and self-discovery, creating a shared space of vulnerability and connection.
Critical Acclaim and Emotional Resonance
Since its premiere at the Dublin Fringe Festival in 2022, Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar has garnered widespread acclaim. The Irish Times praised it as a “vulnerable exploration of a journey from self-hatred to self-fulfilment,” highlighting Moran’s ability to balance wit with emotional depth. Similarly, ArtsHub described the show as “a wonderful example of storytelling that explores sensitive issues in the reflective manner of someone who has come out the other side.”
A Highlight of the Bealtaine Irish Theatre Festival
The Bealtaine Irish Theatre Festival, known for showcasing the richness of Irish theatrical talent, provides the perfect platform for Moran’s introspective performance. Audiences can expect an evening that challenges perceptions, elicits laughter, and fosters a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a performance that has touched hearts and minds across the globe. Join Tom Moran as he navigates the intricate dance between truth and fiction, leaving audiences both entertained and introspective.
Full Festival Lineup:
1. The King of All Birds
April 25th – 27th, 8:00 PM
Ontario Heritage Center
This fresh performance takes audiences on a quirky and playful journey into humanity’s shared fascination with the sky. The King of All Birds uses song, vocoder (an audio processing tool that transforms sound to create robotic, ethereal effects), film collage, and music to explore our dreams of flight, the stories we’ve created to soar, and the ways we continue to climb higher. A celebration of ambition, flight, and the dreams we chase, this innovative performance will leave audiences in awe, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything else.
2. Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar
May 2nd – 3rd, 8:00 PM
Theatre Passe Muraille
After sold-out runs at the Dublin Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and a successful run with the Irish National Theatre, Tom Moran brings his critically acclaimed solo show to North America. In a hilarious yet deeply personal performance, Tom explores themes of masculinity, childhood, and the secrets that shape us. With humour, heart, and plenty of laughter, this deeply relatable journey leaves audiences both emotional and empowered. Named one of Ireland’s Rising Stars by Hot Press Magazine, Tom Moran is a rising voice in theatre and comedy.
3. Story of a Day – Scéal Lae
May 17th – 18th, 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM
Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse
This magical, music-filled journey explores how the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary through one child’s day. A playful, poetic celebration of the little moments in life, Story of a Day invites young audiences to explore the world with new eyes. Featuring original music by Tom Lane and vibrant illustrations by Mary Murphy, this performance is perfect for children aged four and up (and their families).
4. The Libravian
May 24th – 25th, 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM
Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse
Meet Lynn, the lovable librarian, or “libravian” as she likes to call herself. In this whimsical adventure, audiences journey through literature, exploring stories about bravery. Through playful costumes, intricate sound design, and physical theatre, The Libravian is a joyous celebration of books, courage, and the magic of imagination. Designed for young audiences aged 8-11, this enchanting performance is perfect for families.
Tickets for all performances are available through the Canada Ireland Foundation website and partner venues. For more information on the festival lineup, tickets, and venue details, visit the official website at www.canadairelandfoundation.com.
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