Adapted & directed for the stage by Peter Sheridan
From the book by Brian Behan. Additional material by Rosaleen Linehan

★★★★ The Irish Times   ★★★★ The Arts Review  ★★★★★ Hot Press

Join Imelda May for an evening of songs and stories celebrating the life of Brendan’s Mammy. Mother Of All The Behan's
is the story of his ‘inspirational’ mother Kathleen, a fascinating record of a remarkable life. Inspired by the songs and
stories handed down through generations, this retelling is an entertaining journey through the social history of Dublin
and the Behan family history.

Speaking ahead of her sold out run in 2024, Imelda May said: “I’m over the moon to get to reprise my role of Brendan
Behans extraordinary mother Kathleen in Peter Sheridan’s incredible one woman play Mother Of All the Behan's. I hold
Kathleen’s story very close to my heart as I do all the women’s stories that have shaped the world but are too often
unspoken about.

I’m very aware of the chance Peter has taken and has given me in casting me as Kathleen and I am indebted to him for
trusting me to put the work in and do a good job of it. I’m a storyteller for sure but a one person play is no easy feat for
even a well-trained actor but months of dedication and hard work paid off and thanks to you all filling the theatre night
after night and spreading the word when you left, we’ve been asked to do it again!! I couldn’t be more humbled or
more grateful to you all!”

3Olympia Theatre, Dublin

Tuesday 29th July to Saturday 2nd August 2025

Theatre Royal Waterford

Tues 05 - Sat 09 August, 2025

Everyman Cork

Tues 12–Sat 16 August 2025

Grand Opera House, Belfast

Mon 18–Sat 25 August 2025

Imelda May’s performance is stunning. She brings the real-living-breathing Kathleen before us in a towering performance….. Well worth the ticket. Waterford News & Star This production is a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling in preserving our history and connecting with our roots. Imelda May’s performance transcends mere entertainment; it’s a celebration of the Irish spirit and a tribute to women like Kathleen Behan who have shaped that spirit. This event was a significant cultural moment, resonating deeply with the audience. The laughter and applause that echoed through the Grand Opera House affirmed the bond between Dublin and Belfast, reminding us that our stories—no matter how complex—are what truly connect us. NewsHub The Mother of All the Behans is full of humour and sorrow… Imelda’s voice was superb The Irish Post