Finnegan's Farewell

A somber crowd files into the basement of St. Luke's Church, facing the stage which contains six chairs, a pulpit, a large papier mache three-leaf clover on a stand. A priest quietly approaches several in the audience, chatting about the deceased, Paddy Finnegan. It seems that Paddy had been painting the kitchen ceiling, and fell to his death, at age 62. Also approaching viewers is Brian, Paddy's youngest son, in his fireman's uniform. We express our condolences. It's remarkable how quickly audience members embrace the situation. The proceedings begin: the priest addresses the group, then Paddy's eldest son, Patrick (Bart Shatto) insists on singing "Danny Boy." When, however, he does a repeat in extreme gospel style, his mother is shocked. Oldest daughter, Erin, also sings, quite beautifully. A Jewish gentleman, Max Goldstein, attorney to Paddy, rises to clarify the priest's remarks that Paddy had won $1,000,000 in the lottery; it was closer to $2,500,000. The coffin is brought in, led by a bagpipe player. Mrs. Finnegan throws herself upon the coffin and requests that it be opened. Lo and behold, the casket is empty.

Soon the wayward hippie-garbed middle daughter, Colleen, makes an appearance; she's flown in from California. There's some conflict between her and sister Erin. Finally, the bagpiper in the lead, all proceed to the festivities down the street, replete with corned beef and cabbage dinner, followed by formal entertainment: the RiverKids give a classy step dancing showing, there's more singing, and finally ordinary ballroom dancing by the audience. It's announced that Paddy's body has been located in Hoboken and will be returned.

There are some especially witty lines in the church segment, with fine performing, particularly by Bart Shatto (Patrick), and Erin Pender (Erin) and a funny turn by Sharon Angela as the gaudily attired Busty Quivers, who may or may not have known Paddy only too well.

[Note: Runs in rep w/ Tony n' Tina's Wedding and Late Nite Catechism.]