You’re born in one country. But your parents come from a different one. So what does that make you?

And what if the two countries in question share a profound and complex history, one of conquest and subjugation, of resistance and rebellion?  But which happen to be closest neighbours across the Irish Sea, and have grown to a mutual understanding, and (a sometimes uneasy) co-existence?

Where do you find your identity? How do you define yourself?  Are you British? Or are you Irish? Or don’t you know?

Join Declan Duffy as he attempts to make some good sense out of it all. He’ll consider the history of Irish migration to Britain, the difficulties encountered by the people who made that journey, and how all of it has influenced us, their descendants, in our consideration of who we are, what we are.

Press for this production

“a rich, wide-ranging exploration of what it means to be Irish when your roots are inherited rather than geographically lived… This duality sits at the heart of the piece and is explored with warmth, honesty, and humour.

Duffy’s delivery is generous, conversational, and deeply heartfelt. He is also an accomplished singer and guitarist, interweaving Irish songs throughout the performance. These musical moments add emotional depth and texture… It is a complex and fascinating subject.

Call Yourself an Irishman? is thoughtful, funny, moving, and deeply engaging. You’ll find yourself captivated and enthralled as Duffy navigates his story with charm, intelligence, and openness. At just 75 minutes, it flies by, and like me, you may well leave wanting to see it again.” ★★★★★  London Theatre1 

“exceptional flair… Duffy is a charming performer with that rare ability to balance humour and authenticity seamlessly, presenting details from his own life with ease and ensuring full confidence and sympathy. In addition, he can sing and play guitar with great aptitude, punctuating the show with musical numbers in a brilliant stylistic touch… the play is a charming and stirring piece that provides plenty of informative entertainment. Duffy is no doubt one to watch, and further work is bound to impress.” Everything Theatre

“it’s more topical than ever now, perhaps, given that immigration is such a contentious issue at present… I learned a lot from Duffy… Duffy is a charismatic stage presence whose piece often pulls you up short.” Susan Elkin

“he has a gentle but clear tone and it’s obvious that he’s singing from his Irish heart… The entertainment really gets into its stride as he recreates a raucous St Patrick’s Day party in his parents’ pub… there is plenty to enjoy in Duffy’s story… there’s a gem of a show for anybody who has a connection with the Emerald Isle.” Theatre and Tonic

“Hilarious, informative and thought-provoking. Totally relatable to second- and third-generation Irish.” The Irish World

“This powerful, funny and moving show dives into migration, identity and the complex ties between Britain and Ireland.” Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith