Play exploring autism parenting comes to Cork next month

A new play, exploring the emotional landscape of parenting a neurodivergent child, is set to hit the stage in Macroom next month.

Written and performed by Matthew McMahon alongside co-star Eileen Gomez, both parents of children with autism, The Flowers of May draws on their lived experience of raising children with autism.

In their roles as David and Lisa, the actors navigate their child’s diagnosis, their experience of the school system for neurodivergent children, societal pressures, and sleepless nights, while showcasing the love, resilience, and quiet heroism of everyday family life.

Blending raw honesty with sharp humour, the aim of the production is to highlight the highs and lows of child-rearing, and the unexpected challenges that arise along the way.

As part of its national tour, The Flowers of May will play for one night at the Briery Gap in Macroom on Saturday, March 7, at 8pm.

Mr McMahon wrote the piece to give voice to experiences that are often underrepresented in Irish theatre, describing the piece as “not a clinical story, or a policy debate, [but] a human story”.

“We wanted to create something truthful,” said Mr McMahon.

“Not a tragedy. Not a lecture, but something real — something that reflects the beauty, the chaos, the fear, and the deep love that defines our families.”

Ms Gomez further added a personal touch to the piece, offering insights into her own experiences so anyone connected to the autism community could feel seen and understood.

Mr McMahon said the play will offer the Cork audience an opportunity to experience a piece of theatre that is “intimate, socially relevant, and profoundly human”.

“The story has resonated strongly with audiences across Ireland, sparking meaningful conversations long after the curtain call.”

Tickets for the performance at the Briery Gap are priced from €18, and are available for purchase online at www.brierygap.ie.