The life and legacy of the rock titan Phil Lynott will be recounted in a new play production at Vicar St from spring next year. Moonlight is deemed by its organisers as an expansive rock theatre production that explores the early life of Philo from his ascent from the mean streets of Dublin to influence and inspire a generation of musicians around the world.
The play promises to avoid just being a jukebox play out of Thin Lizzy hits, while also containing new original music performed by a live band. Moonlight will explore Lynott’s life in depth, with producers saying “it’s time to move beyond the headlines and cliches.“
They say “This is an honour piece, telling the less well-known side of Lynott’s story – honestly and powerfully.“
The synopsis for Moonlight says, “Philip Lynott would have been 75 years old on August 20th, 2024, had he won his battle with fame and fortune.
“He was a true innovator as a songwriter and showman who paved the way for a whole generation of musicians and bands around the world. He was complex, driven to overcome huge challenges as a young man and he was truly a poet at heart.
Actor Peter M. Smith will attempt to step into the considerable shoes of the Lizzy frontman, while Eric Bell, the band co-founder, will make a cameo appearance. A stellar cast, director and creatives have been assembled its production team has promised.
Smith said “when offered the chance to play the role of Philip Lynott, I was truly honoured as an actor, as a proud Dubliner, and as a Thin Lizzy fanatic. Too much has been said about the rockstar lifestyle – it is a tired subject. This production seeks to honour Philip Lynott for what he was – a literary great and consummate artist.”
“Moonlight” will debut at Vicar Street on April 3rd, 2025. Tickets priced €39.20, are now on sale through Ticketmaster.ie
”A dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, his punishment (and his reward) is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world” – Oscar Wilde, The Artist as Critic
