Photo Flash: THE IRISH...AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY At Irish Rep

Frank McCourt's THE IRISH...AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY is an irreverent but affectionate history of the Irish in America that mingles laughter and sentiment in a tapestry of classical songs and stories. The production encapsulates the most tumultuous times of the past century with the vibrant humor and bitter irony that had become the trademark of the author of the critically acclaimed biographies "Angela's Ashes," "'Tis," and "Teacher Man."

Original cast members Ciaran Sheehan ("The Phantom of the Opera") and Terry Donnelly recreate the roles they originated in the 1997 world premiere of THE IRISH...AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY. Joining Mr. Sheehan and Ms. Donnelly in the cast are Kerry Conte, Patrick Shields, Gary Troy, and Kevin B. Winebold.

Directed by Charlotte Moore, the production features musical direction by Kevin B. Winebold; choreography by Barry McNabb; set design by Shawn Lewis; costume design by David Toser; lighting design by Michael Gottlieb; projections by Jan Hartley; and original musical arrangements by Rusty Magee. Stage management by Christine Lemme and Megan Alvord.

Frank McCourt's THE IRISH...AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY runs through September 5 at Irish Repertory Theatre (132 West 22nd St, between 6th and 7th Avenues): Wednesdays-Saturdays at 8pm; 3pm matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $65 and $55; 212-727-2737 or www.irishrep.org.

Photo credit: Carol Rosegg