Former minister’s one-man show brings him to the stage

Former minister, Joe McHugh is preparing to present his debut one-man show ‘Joe’s Call’, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the day he was appointed Minister for the Gaeltacht in 2014.

The show will be staged at Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair, a venue that was a topic of significant controversy during his political career.

As Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, Joe McHugh had sanctioned a grant of close to half a million euro to restore the theatre in Gaoth Dobhair, despite warnings from senior officials.

They had cautioned that the grant would be “irresponsible,” “negligent,” and even “dangerous,” according to documents released under the Freedom of Information Act by Irish language news website Tuairisc.ie.

“One of the criticisms of the officials was that it wouldn’t be a financially sustainable venture,” Joe explained.

But in what he described as the “irony of ironies,” Joe will now be performing on stage there next Thursday.

Joe’s Call is performed mostly in English, with some scenes as Gaeilge. It gives audiences a unique insight into a pivotal moment in Joe’s career and life.

At the time of his appointment, he was beginning to learn Irish in earnest, striving to become fluent while balancing the demands of a national role.

Co-written by award-winning playwright Francie Cullen, the show blends humour and reflection as Joe recalls his conversation with then-Taoiseach Enda Kenny and reflects on the personal and political impact of the appointment.

Joe recently performed the play for the first time at the Clifden Arts Festival, thinking it would be a one off.

“I thought I would satisfy my curiosity,” he laughed.

But after months of preparation and rehearsal, Francie Cullen who is a native of Gaoth Dobhair, encouraged Joe to bring the play to Donegal.

“So, Francie is to blame – after me swearing I would do one show only.”

“But this really is the last show,” he added.

Though he is no stranger to public speaking from his role as a minister, Joe found this experience very different. He even described his first on-stage performance as terrifying.

“I’ve never spoken into darkness before, when the spotlight is on you. I would have been used to gauging people’s reactions and focusing in on individuals, so I found it intimidating and disconcerting for a good part of the show.”

He expressed deep respect for anyone who stands on stage because “you’re really exposed”.

“It was terrifying but having done it, it’s a nice feeling to know that you can stand in front of people and be yourself.

“I am very much expressing myself, unlike in politics where you’re always trying to find a balance.”

“In politics, you’re not really afforded the opportunity to express your own opinion because you’re representing the people,” Joe said.

“But this is very much me being me.

“I’m not acting out the role of somebody else, it is a day that happened.

“But with the play being a comedy, Francie added some colour.”

Before becoming the Gaeltacht Minister, Joe had visited Gaoth Dobhair to play sport and he was always intimidated by not speaking Irish.

“But one of the big benefits of getting the post was that places like Gaoth Dobhair were so warm, encouraging and supportive of me and my language journey.”

“I’m hoping that continues next Thursday night,” Joe laughed.

Joe’s Call will be staged in Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair on Thursday, October 9 at 7.30pm.