Johnny Patterson the Singing Irish Clown

by Little John Nee, Directed by Raymond Keane

Set Design - Kieran McNulty
Costume Design - Marie Tierney
Lighting design - Sarah Jane Shiels
Sound Design - Roger Gregg

Cast: Little John Nee, Bryan Burroughs, Roger Gregg.

The play premiered at The George Bernard Shaw Theatre, Carlow September 30th to October 3rd 2009

Other Performaces:
The Project Arts Centre Dublin, November 2009 National Tour 2010

This magical show is an homage to the forgotten genius of Johnny Patterson, The Rambler from Clare

Circus performer Johnny Patterson's life was extraordinary. Orphaned and raised in County Clare, he was a successful national circus performer, head–hunted by a world famous circus, who left behind his beloved wife and home for the bright lights of America.

Johnny Patterson, The Singing Irish Clown traces a life marked with triumphs and tragedies - from struggling Irish immigrant to one of America's highest paid entertainers and a final homecoming that cost him his life.

A poignant new show that is an homage to the forgotten genius, Johnny Patterson. A story that captures the magic and spectacle of the circus and the harsh reality of the life of one of Ireland's most beloved entertainers.

"Mesmerising. Enchanting. Magical. Touching. Ingenius. Innovative. Quirky. Endearing. Experimental. Different and highly imaginative."
Irish Theatre Magazine

Nominated for Best Sound Design, Roger Gregg - Irish Times Theatre Awards 2009
Winner Best Supporting Actor, Bryan Burroughs - Irish Times Theatre Awards 2009

"Spellbinding tale of a folk hero's life... a thoroughly engaging, sprightly and poignant piece of theatre."
Sunday Business Post

"Barabbas Brings a new energy to their clowning interests with this historical biography of Ireland's most famous clown"
Irish Times