Seamus O’Rourke to bring 'The Love Hungry Farmer' to Birr this September

Award-winning writer, director and actor Seamus O’Rourke is preparing to bring John B. Keane's 'The Love Hungry Farmer' to Birr this September.

The play, which is being performed in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre at 8pm on Saturday, September 19, tells the story of John Bosco McLaine, a man who has never lain down with a woman, but has had romantic blood pulsing through his veins all his life.

Always an optimist, and virgin in equal measure, he embarks on a search for an ideal companion regardless of age, failure rate or dammed advice, and in a community where advice is ample and women few, he follows his heart in an ultimate bid to procure himself a wife.

Often referred to as the natural successor to John B Keane as Ireland’s masterful present day storyteller, Seamus O’Rourke brings to life in this production the wistful, blundering, romantic John Bosco McLean, matching stride for stride Keane’s fantastic wit and way with words in an uproarious evening of laughter, love, hope and desire.

John B. Keane (1928–2002), born in Listowel, was one of Ireland’s most beloved and best-selling authors.

Running a pub in Listowel inspired many of his characters and ideas. His notable plays include Sive, The Field, and Big Maggie, while his Letters series, especially The Love Hungry Farmer, achieved great success.

The Birr performance is proving popular, with a limited amount of tickets still available. Tickets are priced at €22.50 (plus booking fees), and can be purchased at https://birrtheatre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873677979