“STAND UP MAN” TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT BABY GRAND @grandoperahouse

Northern Ireland theatres are set to host a dark comedy with a difference as Stand Up Man by Derek Murphy prepares to open at the Grand Opera House’s Baby Grand theatre on 28th January before touring regional theatres throughout February.

Stand Up Man follows Thaddeus McGuinn, played by Nick Hardin, a stand-up comedian who is one joke away from a mental breakdown. Disgraced ex-altar boy, Thaddeus, is about to face his toughest audience ever, his own sins. The play focuses on Thaddeus over one week, as he journeys back and forth between his audience and his family.

Well known Northern Ireland actor, comedian and TV personality, Tim McGarry will play a main role as Thaddeus’ alter ego as he visits his past and admits the errors of his way. This will be McGarry’s first serious theatre role after a successful, long-running career in comedy, radio and TV.

The play is written by Dublin born playwright Derek Murphy who now lives in New York. It is being produced by c21 Theatre Company from Belfast, led by producer Stephen Kelly and directed by Stephen Beggs.

Speaking about the play, Murphy said:

“Stand Up Man is a dark but humorous insight into the complex mind of a troubled Irish-American comedian which explores his guilt, shame and regrets in life. I think everyone knows someone a little like Thaddeus, our misguided anti-hero, so I hope Stand Up Man will resonate with our audiences.

“I’m also delighted to be working with c21 again. This is the second theatre production I’ve collaborated with them on, following their production of the world premier of my play ‘Appendage’ in 2012, so I’m confident the cast and crew will create an amazing show.”

Following its two week run at the Baby Grand in Belfast’s Grand Opera House from 28th January, Stand Up Man will tour local theatres throughout February including the Island Arts Theatre, Lisburn; Riverside Theatre, Coleraine; Craic Theatre, Coalisland; and Market Place Theatre, Armagh, among many others.

Stand Up Man is funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council.

A spokesperson Gilly Campbell, Arts Development Officer from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland said:

“The Arts Council is committed to developing local talent in the arts sector and making the arts accessible to all. We are delighted to support c21 in taking this performance to theatres across Northern Ireland for a wider audience to enjoy. Local theatres have been welcoming increasing numbers of visitors from a range of backgrounds and I encourage everyone come out to support this locally produced and directed show.”

For details of tour dates, please go to www.c21theatrecompany.com

Stand Up Man will tour the following theatres and dates:

* Tues 28th Jan-8th Feb 2014: Baby Grand Opera House

* Mon 10th Feb: Island Arts Centre, Lisburn

* Tues 11th Feb: Old Courthouse, Antrim

* Wed 12th Feb: Boys Model School, Belfast

* Fri 14th Feb: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

* Sat 15th Feb: Ballyearl Arts Centre, Newtownabbey

* Sun 16th Feb: Craic Theatre, Coalisland

* Mon 17th Feb: Cushendall Golf Club, Cushendall

* Wed 19th Feb: McNeill Arts Centre, Larne

* Fri 21st Feb: Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick

* Sat 22nd Feb: Market Place Theatre, Armagh