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Overview
Synopsis
Irish playwright Tom Murphy is renowned for his searing themes and experimentation, and The Gigli Play is considered his masterpiece. It primarily concerns the exploits of JPW King, a “dynamatologist” (a cross between a faith healer and a self-help guru). King is visited by the shady self-made businessman known only as The Irish Man, who is desperate to fill a void in his life by singing like the famous opera singer Beniamino Gigli. Their encounters become something of a seesaw, with each man becoming equally dependent on the other for salvation. With its winding language and vibrant characters, the play has a potency that is reminiscent of classic commedia, but is also at times poignantly philosophical.
Show Information
- Book
- Tom Murphy
- Category
- Play
- Age Guidance
- Mature Audiences (M)
- Number of Acts
- 1
- First Produced
- 1983
- Genres
- Comedy, Dark Comedy
- Settings
- Contemporary, Unit/Single Set
- Time & Place
- An office in Dublin
- Cast Size
- small
- Orchestra Size
- None
- Dancing
- None
- Ideal For
- Ensemble Cast, Mostly Male Cast, Small Cast, Includes Adult Characters
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Lead |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
Songs
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
An aria is a solo vocal piece in an opera or oratorio that showcases the singer’s range and emotional expression. It is typically performed with orchestral accompaniment and often marks a moment of reflection or emotional climax.
The shifting of language or behavior depending on context, portrayed to highlight cultural identity and social dynamics.
A group of performers who function as a unit in a production rather than as individuals with leading roles.
A character who claims to heal through divine power, dramatized to explore belief, doubt, and deception.
A fraudulent medical practitioner, used in comedies or period plays to satirize ignorance and exploitation.
A male vocal range above baritone, commonly featured in opera and musical theatre for romantic or heroic lead characters.
Videos
Quizzes
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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Guide Written By:
Kevan Dunkelberg
Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright