About
Join us at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown on Thursday 1st October 2026 The Man Who Swallowed a Dictionary, a powerful one-man drama about the life, language, and legacy of David Ervine.
Written by Robert Niblock with Martin Lynch and Matthew McElhinney, the play looks beyond the headlines to reveal the human story behind Ervine's transformation. It explores how conflict, education, conviction, and language shaped a life. Known for his sharp mind, political courage and remarkable command of words, Ervine earned a reputation for using "big words" in television interviews, giving the play its striking title. But this is more than a story about one man. It is also a window into the experience of everyday people during one of the most turbulent periods of the Troubles.
The Man Who Swallowed a Dictionary is a vivid evening of theatre about identity, conflict, class, language, and the possibility of change.
For audiences interested in powerful drama, local history, politics, the Troubles, the peace process, and the personal stories behind public events, this is a production not to be missed.
Recommended for ages 14+. Contains mature political/historical content relating to the Troubles and the Northern Ireland peace process.
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | £21.00 per ticket |
| Concession | £19.00 per ticket |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
