It Was Paradise, Unfortunately

by Raphaël Khouri and Myrto Stampoulou

Produed by The Collective

As part of this years Dublin Fringe Festival 2024

Goethe Institute Mon 9th- Thurs 12th Sept 7pm, Fri 13th & Sat 14th 1pm

€11 (preview) / €14 (concession) / €16 (full)

Raphael 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.


Directed by Aisling Ormonde and Jocelyn Clarke

Performed by Raphaël Khouri and Myrto Stampoulou

Stage and Costume design by Myrto Stampoulou

Sound design by Cameron Macaulay

Lighting design by Alan Mooney

Chief LX Emily O’Riordan

Image by Pato Cassinoni