A powerful new drama – based on real-life events surrounding the immigration protests in Oughterard in 2019 – has been released this week on all popular podcast platforms.

At its core, Stepping Up Radio Play explores Irish attitudes to mental health, racism and immigration.

The podcast adaptation was led by French director Olivier Bonnardot, based upon the Stepping Up stage play, by Galway playwright Joan Lally.

It draws on Joan’s own experiences as a therapist and activist, the story captures the cultural and political atmosphere surrounding the immigration protests in Oughterard in 2019.

Set in Galway City, the drama follows the emotional journey of Aisling Kelly, the youngest daughter of a fictional Irish family.

When Aisling begins counselling, she finds herself at a crossroads—haunted by the past and uncertain about the future.

Everything begins to shift when she meets Kamali, a gentle young man from Zimbabwe, living in Ireland’s Direct Provision system.

As their relationship deepens, so too does Aisling’s understanding of love, injustice, and the courage it takes to truly see another person.

Director Olivier Bonnardot of Sultan Bacchus Theatre has transformed the stage play into a tender and powerful audio podcast.

Hailing from Nantes, the French director has deep connections with Ireland’s culture and youth, working closely with An Taibhdhearc and Irish schools.

“Stepping Up Radio Play explores the harsh realities of life in Direct Provision. This is a story of awakening—personal, political, and profoundly human,” he said.

As a therapist, Joan has insight into young people’s experiences of grief, anxiety, and discrimination.

“Aisling’s story speaks to Irish attitudes toward mental health, racism and immigration. Rather than burdening our youth with outdated beliefs, we must honour their ability to connect. They are, after all, our greatest hope,” she revealed.

The cast of the podcast is Fiona Claffey-Kelly (Aisling/daughter), Johanne Webb (Claire/ Therapist), Vusi Thabethe (Kamali/asylum seeker), Michelle Costello (Sheila/Mother), Robert Holden (Marty/Father), and Sinead Hackett (Mags/Aunt).

The podcast was edited and produced by Stan Quarterman and Olivier Bonnardot. The music was composed and performed by Ruth Fitzgerald and Mia Fitzgerald and arranged by Thomas Bonnardot.

The podcast is available for free on podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music – but listeners can make a donation to support a full stage production of Stepping Up on KoFi.

Pictured: Fiona Claffey-Kelly…starring as Aisling in Stepping Up.