Homo(sapien) is an outrageous, heartfelt and mostly sexless romp through the life of Joey Kavanagh, a young Irish Catholic man who is desperate to get laid. Brought to life by writer and performer Conor O’Dwyer, Joey makes the decision after learning about a young man who was murdered for being gay, that life is too uncertain and he needs to “get his hole” before it’s too late. He takes us on a journey through his past, present and future before he takes the plunge to knock on a Grindr hookup’s door. This one-man show is equal parts scandalous and relatable, delivering big laughs and even bigger feelings in just an hour.
Conor O’Dwyer is an absolute hoot! His presence is charming and magnetic, and his comedic timing is razor sharp. In the same breath, his performance exudes vulnerability. Conor delves deep into the pressures of having sex and being a certain type of gay man in the culture. The story is a salute to queer resilience and keeping your true self at the core of whatever you do, whether that be riding or not – you do it on your own time, in your own way.
Even if you’re not a gay Irish Catholic man (all of which I am not), you will see yourself in Joey’s story. Underneath the riffs of Grindr disasters, douching and the mysterious allure of poppers, at its core Homo(sapien) is a touching exploration of self-esteem, shame and the struggle to live authentically. Conor captures that internal battle of self-worth with warmth, wit and gut punching honesty.
Emma Ruse productions are behind this gem and they are on a ROLL! With three other shows running this Fringe, they’re proving themselves a creative force to watch. Top tip this festival, see all four shows and get your loyalty card stamped to receive a free tote bag – Fringe marketing at it’s finest.
Homo(sapien) was first developed as a work-in-progress at the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in 2023 and I am so excited to see where Conor goes next! His writing is bold, deeply human and laugh out loud funny. Everyone who sees Homo(sapien) leaves in stitches and with a tear in their eye.
13:10 @ Assembly Roxy Snug Bar until 24th of August. Buy your tickets here: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/homo-sapien
Theatre Scotland 
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