Then just as all hope seems lost they take matters in their own hands as they set out to devise their OWN play based on every Irish stereotype (both beautiful and damning) that they can dream up.  The result is a play that takes affectionate aim at the rich tradition of Irish theater and its perceived tendency to perpetuate stereotypes. There follows an entertaining exploration of what elements make up the quintessential Irish play:  Aging relatives, rolling green hills, cups of tea, drinking, drinking, more drinking, and much repeated “incest” are some alleged essentials

It feels rather meta to be watching a play about the production of an Irish play to be shown in New York while in New York at the Irish Rep, but completely fitting. Irishtown is like a mashup of The Play That Goes Wrong with an extra slice of slapstick humor.  The Irish are not afraid to look at themselves and have a good time.  And we are right there to have a good time with them.