Family, Theatre Australia
Slingsby and State Theatre Company South Australia
THE BOY WHO TALKED TO DOGS
Adapted for the stage by Amy Conroy
From the book by Martin McKenna
2022 Past Event
Young Martin is a misfit. Bullied at school and misunderstood at home, his only comfort comes from sneaking off to the family coal shed to bond with his German Shepherds, Major and Rex.
When things reach breaking point, the 13-year-old runs away from his home in Limerick, Ireland and finds himself taken in by a new family – a pack of stray dogs. As they dodge trains, steal meals and fight for survival, Martin finds himself on the road he was always meant to take.
Settle into the Studio Theatre in cabaret mode, where acclaimed Irish actor Bryan Burroughs, shadow puppetry, swinging Irish music and stunning physical performance come together to bring Byron Bay ‘Dog Man’ Martin McKenna’s epic true story to the stage. Based on the best-selling memoir, this rough-and-tumble tale is beautifully adapted by Irish playwright Amy Conroy.
The Boy Who Talked to Dogs is a magical and mischievous tale of transformation, redemption, and what happens when the underdog finds his pack.
Reviews
'If more theatre were like this, the world would be a magical place indeed.’
Australian Stage
'Exquisite in every respect… an entirely original experience.’
Adelaide Advertiser
Credits
CEO & Artistic Director Andy Packer
- Playwright Amy Conroy
- Songwriter Lisa O’Neill
- Performer Bryan Burroughs
- Composer Quincy Grant
- Performers & Musicians Victoria Falconer & Emma Luker
- Designers Wendy Todd & Ailsa Paterson
- Lighting Designer Chris Petridis
