‘The Irish ... and How They Got That Way’

Warner Stage Company show opens March 10

TORRINGTON — The Warner Stage Company will present Frank McCourt’s “The Irish … and How They Got That Way,” a musical celebration of Irish heritage in the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre March 10-18.

Due to popular demand, an additional performance has been added on March 15, at 8 p.m., according to a release from the stage company.

Created by the Pulitzer Prizewinning “Angela’s Ashes” author who lived in Roxbury, the show is a celebration of a heritage that confronts adversity with determination, good humor, music and a love of life, according to the release.

“McCourt’s wit, insight and boundless love for the Irish are underscored by music extending from the auld Irish folk ballads to

World War II standards, and beyond,” the company said in the release. “It tells the story of the Irish experience on both sides of the pond. McCourt’s razor-sharp wit, coupled with his trademark bitter irony, are underscored by glorious music.”

Music will include “Danny Boy,” “The Rose of Tralee” and “Harrigan,” the works of George M. Cohan “Give My Regards to Broadway,” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy” as well as modern-day Irish rockers U2.

“The Warner’s Nancy Marine Studio Theatre will be turned into a working Irish pub for this jovial musical,” the release said.

“The Irish… and How They Got That Way” premiered in 1997 at the Irish Repertory Theatre in New York City, where McCourt was an actor.

The Warner’s production is directed and choreographed by Meredith Porri with music direction by John Dressel. The cast features Bret Bisaillon, Susan Kulp, L. Nagel and Josh Newey.

Performances are March 10, 15, 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. and March 11 and 18 at 2 p.m. It is presented by special arrangement with The Irish Repertory Company. The Nancy Marine Studio Series is sponsored by Northwest Community Bank.

To buy tickets, call the Warner box office at 860489-7180 or visit warnertheatre.org.

Mandi Martin / Contributed photos The cast of “The Irish ... and How They Got That Way,” rehearse at the Warner Theatre in Torrington. From left are Josh Newey, Susan Kulp, Lyn Nagel, Bret Bisaillon and music director John Dressel.

Bret Bisaillon rehearses his role in “The Irish ... and How They Got That Way,” at the Warner Theatre in Torrington.

Mandi Martini / Contributed photo The Warner Stage Company’s cast of “The Irish ... and How They Got That Way,” rehearses on the main stage at the theater in Torrington. From left are Josh Newey, Susan Kulp and Bret Bisaillon.