New play in Birr based on story of transgender soldier

A new, original play based on the extraordinary true story of the Louth-born transgender American war hero Albert Cashier is coming to Birr Theatre & Arts Centre this Saturday.

In this original new play entitled 'The Curious Case of Albert Cashier: Lincoln's 'Lady' Soldier', the company, Quintessence Theatre, use their innovative physical ensemble storytelling techniques mingled with multi-media of stunning projection and emotive music to dramatise the incredible true story of the Clogherhead-born transgender soldier.

Belvidere, Illinois, 1862: A young Irishman, Albert enlisted with the Union Army in the Civil War in the 1860's and became a decorated hero. Unknown to his comrades, Private Cashier was waging an internal war all of his own. When he was fifty years a veteran an indiscreet doctor revealed to all of America that Pte Cashier was assigned female at birth, born under the name Jennie Hodgers.

Quintessence Theatre is excited to announce that the original ensemble cast who devised the play are all back for the National Tour, including: Ceara Carney; Fiona Keenan O’Brien; Anthony Kinahan; Mark O’Reilly and Leah Rossiter. 'The Curious Case of Albert Cashier' was created in association with Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda & the National Tour is kindly supported by The Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon.

The play will be staged in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre this Saturday, September 30 at 8pm. Tickets cost €18 and can be purchased via birrtheatre.ticketsolve.com. Suitable for ages twelve and up. Doors open at 7.30pm.