This weekend, the Abbey Theatre in Dublin will present the global debut of "Bobby and the Chimps," a new play penned by London-based dramatist James Phillips.
Taking place against the backdrop of the 2008 presidential race, the play shines a light on a local school board election that could swing the balance from an even split toward giving either the Democrats or the Republicans a slight edge.
The main character, Bobby Young, chooses to campaign for a seat on the school board, yet his close-knit circle of buddies, whom they jokingly call "The Chimps," worry about him entering politics since he does not have kids. As the competition intensifies, it culminates in a pivotal debate between the final contenders.
The journey back to 2008 has been intriguing," remarked the play's director, Joe Bishara. "While we have progressed significantly in certain aspects, this production remains just as raw and poignant today as it did back then.
Bishara anticipates that the production will highlight the significance of engaging in various tiers of municipal voting processes.
“I’m hopeful that people will leave with this understanding,” Bishara stated. “They’ll begin to consider more closely the school board elections in their own community. Does this reflect how politics operate on a larger scale?”
In conjunction with Original Productions Theatre, "Bobby and the Chimps" represents the second partnership between the Abbey Theater of Dublin and James Phillips. The venue had previously showcased the North American debut of the playwright's piece as presented by the Evolution Theatre Company in 2023. McQueen."
"I believe that the purpose of theatre is to make people think and feel," said Bishara. "And I think that this piece will definitely light the spark for discussion."
"Bobby and the Chimps" continues until April 13 at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. For performance times and details about tickets, please visit: https://www.visitdublinohio.com/event/bobby-and-the-chimps/5013/
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