CONFIRMATION
The Lir
★ ★ ★
When Anthony Keigher was a child he believed he had magical powers. On the cusp of adolescence, however, his magic disappeared. He realised he wasn't a wizard, just gay, and no invisibility spell would cloak his difference in rural Roscommon, where he lived.
Xnthony stages this story as a confessional coming-of-age pop concert, using original songs by Ódú to capture the emotional tenor of a journey that takes him to London and back home, seeking confirmation of his identity.
Xnthony's voice has a rich, orotund tone that easily adapts to the range Ódú offers in her blend of balladic and dance pop, while the choreographer Yvan Karlsson ensures that the show is always visually dynamic.
The script lacks focus, however, indulging a link between Xnthony's personal journey and recent changes in Irish society that never quite rings true. As a concert, however, Confirmation is sonically stirring, and the seeds of something original are stirring here.
Runs until Saturday, September 22nd
