it was paradise, unfortunately, 2024

Produced by The Collective. Presented as part of Dublin Fringe 2024

Raphaël Khouri wants to heal the world with plants. When his quest for a cure brings him to Greece, and he discovers the radical, queer and intersectional origins of western theatre, he’s forced to ask the question – where did it all go wrong? Based on true events, Raphael tells two intertwining stories – his own as a trans Arab playwright, and his three-year investigation into the mystery of Dionysos. This astonishing show offers a bold and inclusive new vision for theatre artists and audiences in the 21st century.

“A stunningly clever investigation of theatre as trans art form”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Irish Times

Writer: Raphaël Kouri

Performers: Raphaël Khouri and Myrto Stampoulou

Directors: Aisling Ormonde and Jocelyn Clarke

Music and Sound: Cameron Macaulay

Lighting: Alan Mooney

Chief LX: Emily O’Riordan

Images: Pato Cassinoni