Finnegans Wake is one of the most challenging reads in the English language, but it rewards those who persevere to enjoy the rich humour of Joyce’s literary games and puzzles and his inventive language. Celebrations of the 85th anniversary of the book’s publication were held on May 4, 2024, in Dublin, Paris, Lisbon, Melbourne, Los Angeles, Boston and here in Ottawa.
Tickets sold out quickly, and the room soon filled up with an audience of both stalwart Joyceans and the curious who had come to see what all the fuss was about. A great afternoon’s entertainment!
The JJAO invited Richard Harte and Adam Seelig of Toronto’s One Little Goat Theatre Company to perform several highlights from the book, including the opening chapter and the “Ballad of Perrse O’Riley.” They also showed a short film, “Nowthen…” directed by Luke Brabazon, featuring Richard Harte, Frances McCormack and artist Carol Wade. The audience joined the theatre company in singing songs from the period. Harp music was provided by Nora Pat Marshall, and the James Joyce Association house band played Irish songs.
Altogether, the program revealed the rich texture of Joyce’s final masterpiece.
