Moonlight: The Philip Lynott Enigma – A New Musical Premieres in Dublin

Get ready for a rockin’ theatrical experience! The world premiere of Moonlight: The Philip Lynott Enigma, a captivating new musical exploring the life of legendary Thin Lizzy frontman Philip Lynott, is set to rock Dublin next April.

Described as an “expansive rock/theatre production,” the show promises to delve into Lynott’s early years, showcasing his musical genius and the challenges he faced as a young artist. Irish actor Peter M. Smith takes on the iconic role of Lynott, while Thin Lizzy co-founder Eric Bell will make a special cameo appearance.

A Powerful Tribute to a Musical Icon

Moonlight is the brainchild of musicians and songwriters John Merrigan and Danielle Morgan. The production features a full cast and live band, performing timeless Thin Lizzy hits alongside original music composed specifically for the show.

The premiere takes place at the historic Vicar Street in Dublin on April 3rd, 2025. Tickets are priced at €39.20 and are already on sale through Ticketmaster.ie.

The synopsis of Moonlight paints a poignant picture:

“Philip Lynott would have been 75 years old on August 20th, 2024, had he won his battle with fame and fortune.

“He was a true innovator as a songwriter and showman who paved the way for a whole generation of musicians and bands around the world. He was complex, driven to overcome huge challenges as a young man and he was truly a poet at heart.

“We believe he deserves to be recognised in the pantheon of great Dublin writers, alongside Oscar Wilde, Brendan Behan and others.

Moonlight focuses on Lynott’s early years and the first phase of Thin Lizzy, covering the period in the late 1960s and early ’70s in Dublin and London. “

Peter M. Smith, stepping into the shoes of the legendary frontman, shared his excitement:

“When offered the chance to play the role, I was truly honoured as an actor, as a proud Dubliner, and as a Thin Lizzy fanatic.

“Too much has been said about the rockstar lifestyle – it is a tired subject. This production seeks to honour Philip Lynott for what he was – a literary great and consummate artist.”

John Merrigan and Danielle Morgan, the creators of Moonlight, emphasize their dedication to portraying Lynott truthfully:

“We explore his character in depth and authentically – it’s time to move beyond the headlines and cliches. This is an honour piece, telling the less well-known side of Lynott’s story – honestly and powerfully.

“In the research, we have had numerous meetings and discussions with Lynott’s contemporaries – people who were “in the room” at key moments of the story who have generously shared their time and encouragement.”