DUBLIN 18th September 2026 – Irish Society for Christian Civilisation (ISFCC) has launched an online petition calling on the Gaiety Theatre to cancel its upcoming production of TESTAMENT, an opera written by Colm Tóibín. The campaign has already gathered nearly 2,000 signatures from members of the public demanding the cancellation of the production.
The petition fulfils two goals: first, it demands that the directores of the Gaiety Theatre cancel the performance; second, it serves as an act of reparation for the opera’s attack on Mary, the Mother of God.
“Protests work,” said Damien Murphy, campaign organiser for the ISFCC. “In 2025, our supporters held a Rosary Rally in Westport after Mayo Pride published pictures online of a Child of Prague statue mockingly dressed in transgender colors. That public rally contributed to widespread outrage, leading to the removal of the online images and a public radio apology from Mayo Pride.”
ISFCC and its supporters are especially outraged about how the opera depicts Mary, saying it is an attack on her good name and that her portrayal in the production is simply not true.
“Our Lady, from the moment she accepted to be the Mother of God, knew that she would suffer and knew Her Son would suffer.” Murphy noted. “And when Her Son was crucified on that day, the only person whose Faith was not shaken was His dear Mother.”
“Our protest is also an act of reparation,” Murphy added. “Every loving child naturally defends their mother when she is attacked. Colm Tóibín’s depiction attacks the good name of Mary, who is loved and venerated by millions of Catholics as our spiritual mother and as the Mother of God.”
“It’s ridiculous to portray Our Lady as denying the redemption of Our Lord and also for her to be at odds with the Apostles. If anything, the Apostles looked to her for support as her Faith never wavered.”
ISFCC has confirmed it will continue collecting signatures. The petition can be found here. https://www.isfcc.org/petition/tell-gaiety-theatre-and-colm-toibin-stop-the-blasphemy/
Media Contact:
Damien Murphy, Irish Society for Christian Civilisation (ISFCC)
Website: www.isfcc.org
Email: dmurphy@isfcc.org
Phone: 0894617935
This year, it is more crucial than ever that we turn to prayer and intercession to increase devotion to Our Lady across our country. That’s why you’re invited to join us in the Three Hail Marys Pledge, a powerful devotion that can bring personal spiritual benefits and national transformation. By reciting three Hail Marys daily, you honour the Immaculate Heart of Mary and seek her intercession for the conversion of sinners, the salvation of souls and the restoration of Ireland’s Catholic Faith. This ancient devotion, revealed to Saint Mechtilde, promises spiritual benefits including protection from mortal sin and the assurance of a good death. Your daily prayers will contribute to an increase in devotion to Our Lady, the conversion of sinners and the moral renewal of our country. Let us commit to this powerful devotion and seek the guidance and protection of Our Lady.
