Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine starring Norma Sheahan

Treat yourself to an evening of laughter, triumph, and a hilarious journey of rediscovery.

Norma Sheahan, one of Ireland’s leading dramatic actors, brings her sell-out performance of Willy Russell’s effervescent and iconic character Shirley Valentine to Tuar Ard.

Meet Shirley, a 45-year-old housewife, trapped in a dreary marriage and humdrum life. As she prepares her husband’s dinner, egg and chips, Shirley wonders when she lost her hopeful, youthful self.

Feeling isolated, she resorts to full-blown, although somewhat one-sided, conversations with her bestie, her kitchen wall, and dreams of excitement beyond her grim role as “St. Joan of the fitted units”.

So, when an unexpected chance to travel to Greece appears, Shirley takes a leap, digs deep into her flagging confidence and discovers it’s never too late to reclaim your dreams, your joy, and yourself.

First performed in 1986, this production marks the 40th anniversary of the play. Its themes of self-discovery, love, and freedom continue to resonate powerfully with audiences today. Shirley Valentine has won an Olivier Award for Best Comedy, a Tony Award for Best Play, and inspired an Oscar-nominated film.

This iconic production is directed by Michael Scott and stars Norma Sheahan as Shirley.

Directed by: Michael Scott

Designed by: Michael McCaffery

Produced by: CTD: City Theatre Dublin and Mullingar Centre for the Performing Arts