Joe’s Call

Joe McHugh presents his debut one-man show Joe’s Call, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the day he was appointed Minister for the Gaeltacht in 2014. Co-written with Francie Cullen, the performance blends humour and reflection as Joe recounts his conversation with then Taoiseach Enda Kenny and the personal and political impact of the appointment. Performed in both Gaeilge and Béarla, Joe’s Call gives audiences a unique insight into a pivotal moment in his career and life.

Joe McHugh’s journey with the Irish language is one of perseverance, humility and cultural rediscovery. Formerly Minister for the Gaeltacht, he began learning Irish in earnest at the start of his political career, confronting the challenge of acquiring fluency while holding a national role. His debut book, ‘Beidh Tú Alright’, is a personal and powerful reflection on that experience — a testament to the resilience of the language and its role in shaping identity.