As part of mental health charity First Fortnight's Festival, Peter Gowen’s latest play, Declan’s Got Talent, is a powerful theatrical journey which takes its viewers on a contemporary exploration of an older Irish man’s inner struggles, shaped by his upbringing in the 1950s and 60s.

With the first shows taking place in the Smock Alley Theatre, the narrative follows Declan’s journey through childhood, burgeoning sexuality, and his aspirations to take Holy Orders.

This is Gowen’s third play, and is supported by Cork and Waterford Councils. Following his acclaimed role as Father Jack in Dancing at Lughnasa at The Gate Theatre, Gowen presents a piece that skilfully blends tragedy with a sharp streak of humour.

Speaking to Hot Press about the poor depictions of mental health within art and the importance of highlighting artists that positively show the actual lived experience - and that recovery is possible, First Fortnight CEO Maria Fleming said: “An example is Declan’s Got Talent, a dark comedy stage production by Youghal native and veteran actor Peter Gowen.

"Set to be toured across Ireland, the play deals with the difficult issue of sexual and physical abuse of young boys in institutions.

“Many of those victims would now be Peter's age and dealing with mental health issues as a result of that abuse. The aim is to address difficult topics in an ethical and appropriate way on stage, and provide a positive example.”

Tickets cost between €18-20, and are available here.

• Check out other performance dates via the Instagram post below.

 

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