What happens when Ulysses leaves the page and steps onto the stage?
This week, Mark Sanford Gross and Cliona O'Farrelly welcome acclaimed Irish playwright, journalist, and historian Colin Murphy for a wide-ranging conversation about James Joyce, theatre, and the remarkable legal battle that transformed Ulysses from a banned novel into one of the world's most celebrated works of literature.
Colin discusses his acclaimed play, The United States Versus Ulysses, the famous 1933 obscenity trial, why Joyce's work continues to challenge and inspire readers, and what happens when one of literature's most complex novels is brought to life before a live audience.
With Colin Murphy's generous permission, this episode also includes an excerpt from his stage production, offering listeners a rare opportunity to hear Joyce's world interpreted through the theatre.
Whether you're reading Ulysses for the first time or returning to it once again, this conversation reminds us that Joyce's masterpiece is meant to be experienced—not simply understood.
Learn more about Colin Murphy and his work at colinmurphy.ie.
Ulysses in 80 is hosted by Mark Sanford Gross in Northern California and Cliona O'Farrelly in Dublin as part of the global reading project Ulysses for Everyone. Visit ulyssesin80.com for daily readings, podcasts, discussions, and resources.
Ulysses in 80
A global reading of James Joyce’s Ulysses, moving through the book together over eighty days.
📧 Contact: readingulyssesin80@gmail.com
The 2026 reading is June 1 to August 19th.
