Singer Imelda May says she is both "terrified and thrilled" as she prepares for her theatre debut this August in the lead role of Mother of All the Behans, the story of Brendan Behan's 'inspirational' mother Kathleen.
Based on the book by Brian Behan and adapted and directed for the stage by Peter Sheridan, the new production is being staged at The 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin to mark the centenary of the birth of Brendan Behan.
It is described as "a fascinating record of a remarkable life. Inspired by the songs and stories handed down through generations, this retelling is an entertaining journey through the social history of Dublin and the Behan family history".
Speaking about the role, May said: "I’m excited to announce today, on the centenary of our beloved Brendan Behan's birth, that I’ll be playing the role of his charismatic and magnificent mother Kathleen Behan in Peter Sheridan’s wonderful play Mother Of All The Behans.
"Kathleen’s historical songs, colourful stories and lust for life resonate with me deeply. She’s a true Dub full of wit, wisdom, knowledge, and humour that I feel I know from every woman that raised me."
She added, "I love to learn, I love a challenge and for my growth, both personally and as an artist, I feel it’s imperative to leave my comfort zone often and swim a little deeper each time.
"I’m terrified and thrilled by this project, but I feel passionately about this play, this story, this period of our history and culture and most importantly this woman."
Mother of All the Behans will play at the 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin from 15 August for a strictly limited run.
