
Outlier
written and directed by Marcus Bateson
produced by Mac Tíre Theatre Company
James struggles to remember what is real and what is imaginary, after meeting a guy he wishes he hadn’t.
A lonely university student from rural Ireland, James attempts to deflect the events of a dark night, with stories of his astrology obsessed friend, his performatively woke flatmate, and a new overpriced mindfulness app he’s just discovered.
Conor Murray performs in this energetic one-person show confronting gay online hook-up culture, rainbow capitalism and issues of consent with humour, honesty and nuance.
Marcus Bateson’s tender and hopeful piece exploring a young man’s efforts to find himself comes to the Jack following its successful run at the Melbourne Midsumma Festival 2023.
Press for this production
‘The strong storytelling and likeable lead are what make this show so powerful. The audience automatically feels as though they are sat having a chat with James (Conor Murray), his welcoming personality immediately engaging as he begins the monologue… In addition to the impactful storytelling, Bateson has created a strong identity within the show – secure and confident both with sexuality and the Irish heritage…This production is a combination of being wonderfully written and brilliantly performed‘ ★★★★ The Reviews Hub
‘I was hooked. It helped that the excellent writing was enhanced not only by Conor Murray’s performance but also by excellent sound and lighting – designed by Theo Foley and Ferdy Emmet, respectively…Conor really knows James as a character and throws himself wholeheartedly into his performance which is at times very physical. He also has excellent comic timing and really brings out the many humorous aspects of the writing. Outlier is a first-rate piece of writing that has been translated from page to stage brilliantly by a very talented and committed actor and creative crew.‘ ★★★★ Lastminute Theatre Tickets
‘A nuanced and unusual coming-of-age story.. and a range of themes emerge, which taken together provide considerable food for thought…it’s an energetic and engaging production.’ ★★★★ London Theatre 1
‘There is plenty of humour here with nods to contemporary Irish politics, hypocritically woke housemates and the de-personalised online world of gay hook-ups… It is punctuated with flourishes of humour, delightful character parodies and moving notes of optimism. As a result, Outlier manages to strike the balance between an honest appraisal of some of the darker sides of gay sexual politics and a heartening coming of age story.’ Australian Pride Network
‘explores the nuance of consent with a fresh perspective.’ Milkbar Magazine
Creative Team
Outlier
Written and directed by Marcus Bateson
Movement Director: Charlotte O’Reilly
Sound Designer: Theo Foley
Lighting Designer: Ferdy Emmet
Produced by Mac Tíre Theatre Company
Creative Producer: Conor Murray
Promotional Imagery: Páraic McLean
Cast
Conor Murray