Half an Hour in Heaven at Peoria Irish Festival

Half an Hour in Heaven is a transatlantic comedy-drama written by Irish-American playwright Cinzi Lavin. Set in the early 1960s, the play follows four immigrants from Ireland who have established themselves in Brooklyn while retaining the traditions of their homeland. The production, which premiered in Ireland in 2025, will bring Lavin's characters to life during Peoria's riverfront celebration.

Director Denise Beattie, who has a longtime association with The Chillicothe Players, will be bringing her creative vision to the script. The cast includes RJ Closen, Heather Blase, and Jayne Lourash, with Paul Arbisi taking the stage in the role of Paddy Joe Gallagher, the earthy Irish carpenter.

Performances will take place near the festival's Cultural Village area at an outdoor theater pavilion.

"I'm delighted that the Peoria Irish Festival has embraced this play," says Lavin. "It is a joy to see them share this story about people finding a sense of belonging, something to which audiences of all backgrounds can relate."