Show History

History

Inspiration

Although The Pirate Queen was inspired by a historical fiction novel, "Grania: She-King of the Irish Seas", Grace O'Malley is indeed a real historical figure. However, "Grace O'Malley" is the English version of her actual name, Gráinne Ní Mháille. Clare Island is famous throughout Ireland as her birthplace.

Grace not only inspired Boubil and Schönberg, but also countless Irish musicians and writers. James Joyce features her in "Finnegan's Wake". Cathie Ryan, Shaun Davey, and Gavin Dunne are among many musicians who have writtens songs about her or inspired by her. 

Production History

The Pirate Queen first ran at the Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago from October 3, 2006 through November 26, 2006, starring Tony-nominated Broadway star Stephanie J. Block as Grace. The production moved to Broadway at the Hilton Theatre, premiering on April 5, 2007 and closed on June 17, 2007. A production of The Pirate Queen ran at the Hale Centre Theatre in Sandy, Utah from February to April of 2016.