Irish Theatre of Chicago Sets Lineup for 2017 NEW IRISH VOICES FESTIVAL

Following its sell-out hit The Weir, Irish Theatre of Chicago will continue its 2016-17 Season with THE NEW IRISH VOICES FESTIVAL, three weekends of staged readings from some of Ireland's most exciting new playwrights, never before produced in the U.S.

Featuring intimate performances by ITC ensemble members and select guest artists, THE NEW IRISH VOICES FESTIVAL will be held Thursday and Fridays at 7:30 pm from February 9 - 24, 2017 at Chief O'Neill's Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave. in Chicago. Single tickets ($10) and all-festival passes ($20) are currently available at www.irishtheatreofchicago.org.

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THE NEW IRISH VOICES FESTIVAL Line-Up Includes:

Thursday, February 9 & Friday February 10 at 7:30 pm

O DO NOT LOVE TOO LONG

By Richard Molloy

Directed by ensemble member Carolyn Kruse*

Featuring ensemble members Michael Grant*, Barbara Figgins*, Kevin Theis* and Jamie Young*.

In London's Irish enclave of Kilburn, ex-pats Rory and Sean drink away the hours reminiscing about the glory days. When ghosts from the past suddenly resurface, both men see opportunities for a fresh start - but after years of running away they'll find it's not so easy to go home - wherever that might be. Molloy's darkly funny modern fable combines touches of Conor McPherson's supernatural themes and the comedic violence of Martin McDonagh to create something wholly new, surprising and ultimately deeply heartfelt and touching.

Thursday, February 16 and Friday February 17 at 7:30 pm

THE SPINNING WHEEL

By Sabina Kelly

Directed by Melanie Keller

Featuring ensemble members Barbara Figgins* and Jodi Kingsley*, with additional casting to be announced.

In 1859, English colonial oppression, the strictures of the Catholic Church and a male-dominated society combine to limit the lives of the women in a rural western village. When a startling crime occurs, the women must band together to secure justice and protect their community - from each other. Silent voices come alive with humor and authenticity in this story exploring the sisterhood and strength that have protected Ireland's women through the most desperate of times.

Thursday, February 23 and Friday, February 24 at 7:30 pm

THE MY WAY RESIDENTIAL

By Geraldine Aron

Directed by ensemble member Kevin Theis*

Featuring: ensemble members Robert Kauzlaric* and Jodi Kingsley*, with additional casting to be announced.

Galway-born Willa is 78. South African emigre Byron is 24. In the unlikely setting of a suburban London nursing home, this pair of unloved misfits discovers that family can be chosen and freedom is for the taking. From the author of ITC's hit production of My Brilliant Divorce comes this touching and uplifting story about the choices we make, the hearts we touch, and how it's never too late to live your life with a happy ending.

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*Denotes ensemble member of Irish Theatre of Chicago

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