Pat Shortt reveals familial connections to Offaly

Comedian Pat Shortt has revealed his familial connections to Offaly ahead of comedy tour stops in the county.

The Tipperary native has Birr connections that span generations, he shared, as he prepares to take the stage in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre for his “Knuckledown” show.

“My grandfather's from Birr,” Pat said during an interview on Midlands103. “Last time I was there I was in Oxmantown Hall (now Birr Theatre and Arts Centre).

“I only realised after coming off stage - My daughter was on stage with me – she was the fourth or fifth generation of Shortt that was on that stage."

The performer said that an appearance on the programme 'Who Do You Think You Are?' helped him to trace his familial roots.

“One of the things that emerged from the show was a granduncle or great granduncle of mine had been on the stage in Birr in the Oxmantown Hall and he had done a comedy piece, and there was a piece in the paper.”

Pat and his daughter Faye Shortt are bringing their sell out show “Knuckle Down” to Offaly for two dates.

With shows on December 7 in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, and on February 7 next in Esker Arts Centre, Tullamore – Offaly audiences are in for a treat.

Tickets are priced at €30 each, and can be purchased at www.patshortt.com