James Barbour and Jenny Powers to Lead Irish Rep Revival of Donnybrook!

James Barbour and Jenny Powers are set to lead an off-Broadway revival of Donnybrook!, the 1961 Broadway musical based on the film The Quiet Man. Previews for the Charlotte Moore-directed production begin on February 7 at the Irish Repertory Theatre, with opening night set for February 17.

Barbour will play Sean Enright, an Irish-American prizefighter who returns to his home country after accidentally killing an opponent in the ring. His vow to never raise a hand again is challenged by an Irish maiden named Mary Kate (Powers), who wants a man who will fight for her love. The cast also includes Ted Koch, Samuel Cohen, Patrick Cummings, Terry Donnelly, Kathy Fitzgerald, Mary Mallen, Barbara Marineau, Kern McFadden, Kevin McGuire and David Sitler.

Donnybrook! features music and lyrics by Johnny Burke and a book by Robert E. McEnroe. The 25th Anniversary Irish Rep production will include choreography by Barry McNabb, musical direction by John Bell, scenic design by James Noone, lighting design by Brian Nason, costume design by Linda Fisher, sound design by Zachary Williamson and hair and wig design by Robert-Charles Vallance.

The original Broadway production of Donnybrook! opened in May 1961 and closed two months later, having played two previews and 68 performances.

Barbour’s Broadway credits include A Tale of Two Cities, Assassins, Jane Eyre and Beauty and the Beast. He was slated to appear as the lead in the Broadway production of Rebecca. Powers’ Broadway credits include Grease and Little Women.