Slingsby and State Theatre Company South Australia present

THE BOY WHO TALKED TO DOGS

Adapted for the stage by Amy Conroy

From the book from Martin McKenna

By Amy Conroy

“This is a place I can be. This is a place I can be me”.

Young Marty is a triplet. One of three, only he is the odd one out, the runt of the litter. No one understands him, except his dogs. Locked in the coal shed at night, Martin finds solace from the iciness of a troubled home in 1970’s Ireland, by cuddling up to his German Shepherds, Major and Rex

When he runs away at thirteen, Marty is adopted by a pack of six stray dogs. Together they survive on the road, ignoring “do not enter” signs, dodging trains, stealing milk bottles and meals from open kitchen windows, fizzing and whizzing with energy – outcasts on the outskirts. Emerging as pack leader, Marty discovers deeper ways to communicate with the dogs, learning tricks that lead him back to human company – and a new place where he “can be me”.

Based on the true story of Nimbin’s famous “Dogman”, who grew up in Garryowen, Limerick, this tough but tender tale is a celebration of the love of animals we share our homes and lives with, starring acclaimed Dublin actor Bryan Burroughs amidst a dazzling array of shadows, songs and stellar musicianship.

DIRECTOR Andy Packer

SONGWRITER Lisa O’Neill
COMPOSER Quincy Grant

DESIGNER Wendy Todd
LIGHTING DESIGNER Chris Petridis
COSTUME DESIGNER Ailsa Paterson

The Boy Who Talked to Dogs

Adapted for the stage by Amy Conroy

From the book by Martin McKenna published by Skyhorse Publishing

WITH

Bryan Burroughs
Victoria Falconer
Quincy Grant
Emma Luker

CONTENT

Contains themes of domestic violence

Suitable for all ages from 12 years and up

Developed with the assistance of Draíocht Arts Centre, Blanchardstown, Ireland