With the IRA and the civil war in the spotlight when it comes to Ireland, there is little focus on the homelessness or the rapidly growing economy. These issues are now getting their time in the sun in the Harry Luck Theatre Project presentation of John Ruane's Desperations, playing at Off-Off-Broadway's Theatre for the New City Aug. 24-Sept. 10. In Desperations, we are introduced to Tom Whelan, an alcoholic, homeless Irishman who is still in the mindset of the Ireland of old when boozing and sloth were accepted. However, in present day Ireland, with $7.5 billion in grants from the European Economic Community (EEC), the Emerald Isle has too much money to deal with, rather than too little. And society isn't as tolerant anymore.
John Keating (soon to be seen in the Roundabout Theatre's Juno and the Paycock) makes his directorial debut with the play by Ruane. Featured in the cast are Fidelma Murphy, who has worked on Dublin and London West End stages, and Duncan Rogers, who dons the role of Tom Whelan.
Desperations will run at the Theatre for a New City's Cino Theatre, 155 First Ave (between 10th and 11th St.) through Sept. 10. To purchase tickets at $12, call (212) 539-3521. -- by Ernio Hernandez