The Olive Boy

A CRUDE, COMPELLING, COMING OF AGE COMEDY.

Based on Ollie Maddigan’s real life story, written and performed by Ollie himself.

After the sudden death of his mother, a grieving yet quintessentially teenage boy is forced to change schools and move in with his, until that point, absent father. In a hopeless attempt to stay sane, he decides that the only way to move forward is to pursue the chances of him finally getting a real girlfriend. Like most things in his life, it does not go to plan.

Initially introduced at the Hope Theatre in 2021, the show quickly gained attention during its three-night run as part of the Camden Fringe and then in 2022 as part of its month-long sell out run at The Edinburgh Fringe.

Developed in collaboration with Shoddy Theatre in 2024, the production reflects a balance of high-energy performance and grounded, authentic storytelling. Since its debut, The Olive Boy has gained recognition for its relatable themes, engaging performance style, and its honest portrayal of loss, identity, and coming of age.

the Olive Boy was nominated for three OFFIE’s in 2025 and won Best Creation

for more information visit the website:

http://theoliveboy.co.uk

Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A reminder of how few frills are needed when a true talent commands the stage…A tour de force of ecstasy, emotion and grief”Broadway Baby

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Maddigan crafts a delicate balance of humour and sadness, beautifully merging the destructive blows of grief and family strife”
The Student, Review by Rosa Georgiou

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“An engaging, compelling and exceptional story”
Theatreandotherthingslondon

“Fantastic! Ollie Madigan is one to watch”
Steve Pemberton (League of Gentlemen, Inside No.9)