Beautifully adapted by Irish playwright Amy Conroy, 'The Boy Who Talked To Dogs' is a magical and mischievous tale of transformation, redemption, and what happens when the underdog finds his pack.
Based on the memoir of trauma survivor Martin McKenna, published by Skyhorse Publishing, The Boy Who Talked To Dogs brings together brazen theatricality, thrilling acting, rousing Irish music and shadow puppetry in a show that will connect with Geelong theatre lovers of all ages, courtesy of Adelaide’s acclaimed Slingsby.
Taking to Geelong West Town Hall from Wednesday, July 13 to Saturday, July 16 as part of the beloved Geelong Arts Centre’s 2022 season, the heartwarming production of The Boy Who Talked To Dogs arrives following an incredible successful premiere at Adelaide Festival where it received rave reviews and critical acclaim.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
The play tells a story of a boy bullied both at home and school who finds his family in a band of stray dogs, and themes of bravery, resilience and finding love are all front and center.
“Young Marty is a triplet,” the show descriptions reads. “One of three, only he is the odd one out, the runt of the litter. No one understands him, except his dogs. Locked in the coal shed at night, Martin finds solace from the iciness of a troubled home in 1970’s Ireland, by cuddling up to his German Shepherds, Major and Rex.
“When he runs away at thirteen, Marty is adopted by a pack of six stray dogs. Together they survive on the road, ignoring “do not enter” signs, dodging trains, stealing milk bottles and meals from open kitchen windows, fizzing and whizzing with energy – outcasts on the outskirts. Emerging as pack leader, Marty discovers deeper ways to communicate with the dogs, learning tricks that lead him back to human company – and a new place where he “can be me”.”
Based on the true story of Nimbin’s famous “Dogman”, who grew up in Garryowen, Limerick, this tough but tender tale is a celebration of the love of animals we share our homes and lives with, starring acclaimed Dublin actor Bryan Burroughs amidst a dazzling array of shadows, songs and stellar musicianship.
To celebrate the show’s arrival in the Geelong region, we’re giving a couple of lucky Forte readers the chance to win a double pass to the show on Wednesday, July 13 from 7:30pm. To be in the running, all you have to do is enter your name and email address.
The competition closes Sunday, July 10 at 6pm and winners will be notified by email. By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
The Boy Who Talks To Dogs arrives at Geelong West Town Hall (153 Pakington Street, Geelong West) from Wednesday, July 13 to Saturday, July 16 2022.
Find out more information on the show here.
