The tale of Ireland’s last witch comes to Bandon Town Hall

Cork theatre lovers are in for an unforgettable evening of history and drama next month as award-winning performer Eve O’Mahony brings ‘The Last Witch: Bridget Cleary’ to Bandon Town Hall.

The show on 2 February is part of Creative Bandon’s Bridget’s Festival which runs from 31 January to 3 February.

Based on the haunting true story of Bridget Cleary, a woman whose tragic death in 1895 sparked national outrage, this one-woman show explores the events surrounding her life, her death, and the complex intersection of superstition, gender, and politics.

In this gripping solo performance, Eve embodies multiple characters, giving voice to Bridget Cleary and those who were connected to her story, offering a fresh perspective on an infamous chapter of Irish history.

The tale of Bridget Cleary, often referred to as 'the last witch to be burned in Ireland', is both a chilling reminder of the dangers of superstition and folklore, and an exploration of societal attitudes towards women in a deeply patriarchal society. As Bridget was accused of being a fairy changeling by her husband and his family, her tragic fate illuminates the darker corners of rural Ireland during the late 19th century and connects to the complex history of women in Ireland.

Eve O’Mahony is an award-winning writer and performer from Tipperary. She is known for her powerful and evocative solo theatre works. With a passion for bringing untold stories to life, she has captivated audiences with her insightful portrayals of complex historical figures and poignant social issues. Through ‘The Last Witch: Bridget Cleary’, she continues her mission of creating impactful theatre that sparks dialogue and reflection.

‘The Last Witch: Bridget Cleary’ comes to Bandon Town Hall on 2 February. Doors are at 8pm. The performance will be followed by a Q&A session with Eve O’Mahony.

Tickets cost €15 and are available online at Powertik (search “Powertik Bandon Bridget”), or to buy at the Perfect Cup café in Bandon, or the Wine Buff in Kinsale.