merrion street

British theatre critics have been glowing in their reviews for the eight Irish shows presented in Edinburgh this past month with the support of Culture Ireland, as part of Culture Ireland GB18.

Druid Theatre won a coveted Herald Angel for Garry Hynes’ revival of “Waiting for Godot”. The production, which The Times praised as “superb”, ran at The Lyceum as part of the Edinburgh International Festival.

Inis Theatre won a Scotsman Fringe First for David Horan’s and Iseult Golden’s “Class”. This play, at The Traverse in association with The Abbey Theatre, won many accolades and 4 stars from The Scotsman, The Herald and The Guardian, which listed it as one of the best Fringe shows. “Class” was also nominated for a Carol Tambor Award.

The Guardian also named Malaprop’s “Everything Not Saved” and Prime Cut & Pat Narrans’ production of “My Left Nut” in its list of Best Fringe Shows.

The Observer praised the “breathtaking performances” by Irish actors Cathy Belton, Derbhle Crotty and Aisling O’Sullivan, in Landmark Productions’ “The Approach” by Mark O’Rowe. The play, which ran at The Assembly Hall, received 5 stars from the Edinburgh Reporter and the Edinburgh Festivals Magazine.

“One of the best plays in the city this year” was how the British Theatre Guide rated “Maz & Bricks” Eva O’Connor’s play, presented by Fishamble - The New Play Company.

Ireland’s dance productions were also singled out this year with both Ballet Ireland’s “Giselle’ and Liz Roche Company’s “WRoNGHEADED” receiving 4 stars from The Stage.

Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Joseph Madigan congratulated all the Irish artists and creative teams in Edinburgh. She said:

With more than 3,500 shows at the Edinburgh Festivals, it is testament to the high quality of work being created in Ireland that Irish artists received awards and such critical acclaim. I am immensely proud of all the achievements in Edinburgh and the work that Culture Ireland does in supporting these productions. Our artists continually present work on the international stage of the highest standard which provide global audiences with a sense of Ireland and the powerful creativity of our people

The Edinburgh Fringe runs until August 29th.