Francis the Holy Jester
written and directed by
Dario Fo

Francis the Holy Jester is a one man show, a play which relies solely on the considerable skill of highly experienced performer, Mario Pirovano, and the imagination of the audience. This is a show without props, without scenery and with the simplest of costume where the bond between the audience and the performer, and thus the material and subject is tangible, visceral. A whole range of characters from 13th Century Italy are brought to life before us: Popes and Cardinals, Dukes and Duchesses, soldiers on the battle field, traders in the marketplace and St Francis himself.

The play is funny, utterly uplifting and thought-provoking.

‘This production is the most entertaining and funny history lesson you could hope to see, given a captivating performance by the charismatic Pirovano.’
David Chadderton ***** British Theatre Guide

‘Pirovano’s performance, and his ability, are astounding… I recommend it whole-heartedly and completely.’
Chris Hislop ***** Fringe Review

‘…this was a great piece of theatre, it had medieval humour, pathos and real unique artistic craftsmanship.’
John Ritchie ***** Edinburghguide.com

‘… this wonderful show performed with exquisite timing and exuberance… worth seeing and even giving it a second visit.’
Neil Mc Ewans **** Evening news

Summer preview and Autumn 2010 tour dates can be found here