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Woman in the Making: Panti's Memoir
1968: in a small town in the west of Ireland, a beautiful baby boy is born. He enjoys an idyllic country childhood: privileged, carefree, surrounded by love—and pet sheep. 11 years later, the Pope visits Ireland, and things will never be the same again. At the Pontiff's mass in Knock, the little boy has an epiphany that will set him on the road to become the biggest, boldest, and most opinionated drag queen Ireland has ever known. This is the story of Rory O'Neill's journey from the fields to becoming Panti Bliss, the voice of a brave new nation embracing diversity, all the colors of the rainbow, and, most of all, a glamorous attitude. It's also the story of a misfit who turned his difference into a triumphant art form; of coming to terms with HIV; of political activism; and of "Pantigate," and the speech that touched a million lives. Welcome to the world of Panti—adored, fun drunk aunt to the world—and her creator Rory, in their own inimitable words.
288 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2014
15 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 18, 2014
First things first, Rory can write. He has a keen ear for a nice turn of phrase. His style is clean and very readable, but also at times quite beautiful.
His story is laid out chronologically starting with his childhood and ending with his Noble Call, which made him world-famous.
I don't have anything much more constructive than to say it's quite brilliant, full of deftly observed characters and situations, full of warmth and memory and love.
If you're interested in drag, this is a must-read. If you're interested in Panti(gate), it's also a must-read. I loved how it was the Panti/Rory that I'd seen in person at his shows that was speaking, as in, there was no censorship of events (there's quite a discussion about his club days and anal adventures thereof - which to this day, is still something people in Dublin talk about). I ended up staying up until 3am finishing it!
It's evenly balanced with not too much, or too little written about each chapter of his life. In short, it's highly recommended (even if I feel I haven't done the book any justice with this review).
Oh, a brief mention, because I saw people online asking - the kindle edition does have pictures too (at the end, instead of interspersed)
His story is laid out chronologically starting with his childhood and ending with his Noble Call, which made him world-famous.
I don't have anything much more constructive than to say it's quite brilliant, full of deftly observed characters and situations, full of warmth and memory and love.
If you're interested in drag, this is a must-read. If you're interested in Panti(gate), it's also a must-read. I loved how it was the Panti/Rory that I'd seen in person at his shows that was speaking, as in, there was no censorship of events (there's quite a discussion about his club days and anal adventures thereof - which to this day, is still something people in Dublin talk about). I ended up staying up until 3am finishing it!
It's evenly balanced with not too much, or too little written about each chapter of his life. In short, it's highly recommended (even if I feel I haven't done the book any justice with this review).
Oh, a brief mention, because I saw people online asking - the kindle edition does have pictures too (at the end, instead of interspersed)
February 25, 2016
When my partner Sam and I were visiting Dublin last November, we happened upon a place called The Pantibar the first night we were in town while in search for dinner. The rainbow flag colors were displayed out front. We wound up dropping in after dinner at a nearby pub and found it a lovely and welcoming place.
We noticed an ad on their digital bulletin board promoting the film "The Queen of Ireland." Intrigued, we went to see the film at a local Dublin theater and were immediately taken by Rory O'Neill's (aka, Panti Bliss) story. Rory/Panti was very instrumental in helping get marriage equality in Ireland. Since our visit, we avidly continue to follow the Panti's exploits and adventures.
We noticed an ad on their digital bulletin board promoting the film "The Queen of Ireland." Intrigued, we went to see the film at a local Dublin theater and were immediately taken by Rory O'Neill's (aka, Panti Bliss) story. Rory/Panti was very instrumental in helping get marriage equality in Ireland. Since our visit, we avidly continue to follow the Panti's exploits and adventures.
February 18, 2023
I’ve adored Panti since I tentatively stepped into pantibar as a young closeted gay to enjoy a Monday night ‘make and do’ show. So I think it was probably a given that I was going to love this book.
Even if you have no idea who Panti is (though how could you not) this is a wonderfully written, warm, kind and funny memoir.
Even if you have no idea who Panti is (though how could you not) this is a wonderfully written, warm, kind and funny memoir.
July 22, 2018
3/3.5 stars
June 17, 2024
Buy Woman in the Making from Book Grocer for just $10
Drag artiste Rory O'Neill's alter ego Panti Bliss is considered by many a national treasure in Ireland. Panti Bliss became a force to be reckoned with when a video of her post show speech at Ireland's national theatre, the Abbey, went viral in 2014. In the speech, O'Neill as Panti Bliss spoke of the daily injustices faced by the LGBTI population in Ireland. It resonated with people around the globe. The character of Panti Bliss is smart, savvy, caustic, yet caring- and O'Neill's memoir is all those things too. His engaging story of growing up knowing he was different in a culture that was, at the time, quite conservative is tremendously moving. A perfect companion piece to the documentary The Queen Of Ireland, and a must read for those interested in Queer theory and LGBTI cultural history.
Nick - The Book Grocer
Drag artiste Rory O'Neill's alter ego Panti Bliss is considered by many a national treasure in Ireland. Panti Bliss became a force to be reckoned with when a video of her post show speech at Ireland's national theatre, the Abbey, went viral in 2014. In the speech, O'Neill as Panti Bliss spoke of the daily injustices faced by the LGBTI population in Ireland. It resonated with people around the globe. The character of Panti Bliss is smart, savvy, caustic, yet caring- and O'Neill's memoir is all those things too. His engaging story of growing up knowing he was different in a culture that was, at the time, quite conservative is tremendously moving. A perfect companion piece to the documentary The Queen Of Ireland, and a must read for those interested in Queer theory and LGBTI cultural history.
Nick - The Book Grocer
November 18, 2015
O'Neill is a fantastic writer. This very upfront memoir was a fascinating and refreshing read and I learnt a lot about LGBT rights and history in Ireland. It was also very informative about the drag queen movement- I didn't think I was especially sheltered until reading this! Would recommend to anyone.
July 15, 2023
It's hard to be Irish and not know of Panit Bliss aka Rory O'Neill aka The Queen of Ireland.
I feel like I've known Panti my whole life simply from being on the scene in Dublin but even if she's managed to escape your attention in her decades long drag career in Ireland, her campaigning for civil rights, her standing up to bigots and homophobes, her viral Noble Call, you most likely discovered her through her stint on Ireland's Dancing with the Stars in 2023 where she wowed in 6 inch heels.
Behind the glamorous and confident Panti Bliss, is Rory O'Neill. A son of a vet from a small town in the west of Ireland, someone who Rory himself describes as a man you would pass on the street.
Rory starts this book in 1979 with the visit of the Pope to Ireland and in doing so chronicles not just his life but the story of Ireland offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. For me, it reminded me so much of my own story growing up while Rory skillfully tackles sensitive topics with compassion, reflecting on the process of self-discovery and the courage required to break free from societal expectations.
What is clear in Rory's writing is how much the character of Panti, and the freedoms she allowed him, gave him a space and a platform that he wouldn't have had otherwise. That Panti is as much part of Rory as Rory is of Panti - and both of them are undeniably Irish.
This is a remarkable memoir that goes beyond the surface of drag and activism, delving into the personal growth and resilience of Rory O'Neill. It is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ issues, as well as the transformative power of embracing one's true self.
I feel I also have to direct you to two videos
- Panti Bliss Noble Call Speech - https://youtu.be/WXayhUzWnl0
- And this particular performance on Dancing with the Stars - https://youtu.be/ohPWSPFk2fA
I feel like I've known Panti my whole life simply from being on the scene in Dublin but even if she's managed to escape your attention in her decades long drag career in Ireland, her campaigning for civil rights, her standing up to bigots and homophobes, her viral Noble Call, you most likely discovered her through her stint on Ireland's Dancing with the Stars in 2023 where she wowed in 6 inch heels.
Behind the glamorous and confident Panti Bliss, is Rory O'Neill. A son of a vet from a small town in the west of Ireland, someone who Rory himself describes as a man you would pass on the street.
Rory starts this book in 1979 with the visit of the Pope to Ireland and in doing so chronicles not just his life but the story of Ireland offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. For me, it reminded me so much of my own story growing up while Rory skillfully tackles sensitive topics with compassion, reflecting on the process of self-discovery and the courage required to break free from societal expectations.
What is clear in Rory's writing is how much the character of Panti, and the freedoms she allowed him, gave him a space and a platform that he wouldn't have had otherwise. That Panti is as much part of Rory as Rory is of Panti - and both of them are undeniably Irish.
This is a remarkable memoir that goes beyond the surface of drag and activism, delving into the personal growth and resilience of Rory O'Neill. It is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ issues, as well as the transformative power of embracing one's true self.
I feel I also have to direct you to two videos
- Panti Bliss Noble Call Speech - https://youtu.be/WXayhUzWnl0
- And this particular performance on Dancing with the Stars - https://youtu.be/ohPWSPFk2fA
November 22, 2019
I've had this book on my TBR since it was first published. I don't know why it took me so long to read it. My only excuse is that I'm not a great reader of non-fiction but I am a huge Panti fan and used to be a regular (before I got too old to keep up with the young ones) at Pantibar and I witnessed Pantigate in real time and watched her become the rightful queen of Ireland so the delay in reading this is kind of unforgivable. I've remedied it now though and I'm glad I did because as well as the humour that you would expect this is also thoughtful, poignant and inspiring.
I'm bummed out that I was too young to have been around for the beginning of the drag scene in Dublin. It sounded like so much fucking fun and absolutely mental and shocking. I'm glad though that because of people like Rory/Panti there is a drag scene in Dublin. I am of the personal belief that every bar and club should have at least one drag show a week. I love every single wonderful thing about it. The pageantry, the outfits, the makeup, the glitter, the legs that go on for years, the impossibly tiny wastes, the music and the all round spectacle. Every Saturday night I lined up to get into Panti I was excited and couldn't wait to dance the night away and laugh until my sides hurt. Woman in the Making gives me a look to how that all came about and what a journey!
Wonderfully written and highly quotable I look forward to the follow up that I think has to happen. We must have more!!
November 22, 2019
I've had this book on my TBR since it was first published. I don't know why it took me so long to read it. My only excuse is that I'm not a great reader of non-fiction but I am a huge Panti fan and used to be a regular (before I got too old to keep up with the young ones) at Pantibar and I witnessed Pantigate in real time and watched her become the rightful queen of Ireland so the delay in reading this is kind of unforgivable. I've remedied it now though and I'm glad I did because as well as the humour that you would expect this is also thoughtful, poignant and inspiring.
I'm bummed out that I was too young to have been around for the beginning of the drag scene in Dublin. It sounded like so much fucking fun and absolutely mental and shocking. I'm glad though that because of people like Rory/Panti there is a drag scene in Dublin. I am of the personal belief that every bar and club should have at least one drag show a week. I love every single wonderful thing about it. The pageantry, the outfits, the makeup, the glitter, the legs that go on for years, the impossibly tiny wastes, the music and the all round spectacle. Every Saturday night I lined up to get into Panti I was excited and couldn't wait to dance the night away and laugh until my sides hurt. Woman in the Making gives me a look to how that all came about and what a journey!
Wonderfully written and highly quotable I look forward to the follow up that I think has to happen. We must have more!!
February 19, 2021
This was a wonderful read, an articulate and compelling autobiography by one of Ireland’s most recognisable icons, Panti.
Being Irish, the descriptions of 1980’s and 90’s Ireland were wonderfully familiar without being nostalgic, O’Neill writes honestly about the entrenched homophobic attitudes which pervaded our largely Catholic country, but with humour and honesty shows how attitudes have been changing over the last 20 years, due in no small part to Panti’s vocal activism. Her iconic presence helped fuel the marriage referendum campaign and she has been a figurehead, a face for gay rights campaigns for over 30 years - Ireland would be a different place today without her.
Written with honesty, humour and tenderness, O’Neill takes us through his life as he struggles with his sexuality, HIV and prejudice as well as his friendships, work and activism. I read this book in a day because I couldn’t put it down, if I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
Being Irish, the descriptions of 1980’s and 90’s Ireland were wonderfully familiar without being nostalgic, O’Neill writes honestly about the entrenched homophobic attitudes which pervaded our largely Catholic country, but with humour and honesty shows how attitudes have been changing over the last 20 years, due in no small part to Panti’s vocal activism. Her iconic presence helped fuel the marriage referendum campaign and she has been a figurehead, a face for gay rights campaigns for over 30 years - Ireland would be a different place today without her.
Written with honesty, humour and tenderness, O’Neill takes us through his life as he struggles with his sexuality, HIV and prejudice as well as his friendships, work and activism. I read this book in a day because I couldn’t put it down, if I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
December 25, 2017
Fun, erudite, brave, honest. I loved that Rory O'Neill wrote this book about his alter ego Panti Bliss. There is a whole new combination of Quentin Crisp and Dame Edna Everidge here, but on a completely different level. There are the fun times (lots!) but there are also the inner struggles. And finally, the activism and glorious outcome of the Irish marriage equality referendum. If you have seen any of Panti's live shows or watched The Queen of Ireland, you know that Rory knows how to put a sentence together and - as he insists why he took up drag - he's never boring! The last three chapters especially are riveting. The iconic speech from the Abbey Theatre stage is included in full (watch it on YouTube anyhow).
January 25, 2020
It took me a while to finish this book due to other books from the library arriving in the middle of it. It's very well-written and a fascinating insight into the world of drag queens, which I am not familiar with. I have gay friends, associates, acquaintances and going back a long way, gay school-mates and I am familiar with some of the abuse and oppression they have endured.
I was elated when Ireland became the first country in the world to embrace marriage equality through popular vote. A step in the right direction.
There are parts in this book which are a breezy romp and others which are quite thought-provoking. Still others have a tad too much information, but it's a great read.
I was elated when Ireland became the first country in the world to embrace marriage equality through popular vote. A step in the right direction.
There are parts in this book which are a breezy romp and others which are quite thought-provoking. Still others have a tad too much information, but it's a great read.
February 28, 2025
This book having the highest score on my read list of books is no surprise to me. I absolutely loved this book, I smiled, laughed, gasped and cried reading this book. It made me so happy that Rory was so accepted by his parents despite coming from a small town. I loved that he went off and saw the world before coming back to Ireland to settle and how honest he was about having caught HIV. Rory has such an amazing way with words in spoken and written form and I will gladly reread this book.
February 15, 2019
One totally amazing book! I enjoyed every single page of this inspiring, engaging book :-)
Rory O'Neill....eh, Panti…..represents everything that's positive and life affirming about living a life true to your own ethos :-)
It's so cool to know the story of the glamorous gal ;-) behind one of my favourite Dublin haunts :-)
One of the most entertaining books I have ever read!!
Rory O'Neill....eh, Panti…..represents everything that's positive and life affirming about living a life true to your own ethos :-)
It's so cool to know the story of the glamorous gal ;-) behind one of my favourite Dublin haunts :-)
One of the most entertaining books I have ever read!!
September 13, 2021
A fabulous and enjoyable read, Rory O’Neill articulates very well what it is to be gay - the bad and the good. It also paints an interesting picture of Ireland, both conservative and progressive elements. I little bit clunky in parts but in a way that adds to the authentic voice. It was hard to put down and I miss being in the book already (like I miss my own hedonistic times in the 1990s)
March 11, 2018
Before reading his book I didn’t know much about Rory O’Neill or Panti Bliss. But I can now say I’m completely in love!!!
This book is well written, funny, shocking and completely brilliant!!!
This book is well written, funny, shocking and completely brilliant!!!
August 23, 2019
I'm usually not one for autobiographies as I can get bored of them easily but Panti can really tell a story. Really interesting read, didn't want the book to end!
January 3, 2022
Loved it, definitely recommend it
January 1, 2024
Best book ever written. Everything that I have ever wanted to say about growing up gay in Catholic Ireland is said in this book by Rory O'Neil.
May 11, 2025
A great book.. humouress but thoughtful.. loved it
September 27, 2016
beautifully written, entertaining and engaging memoir. Rory O'Neill discusses growing up in Ireland in the 70s; his career as drag queen Panti Bliss; as well as the events surrounding 'Pantigate' and that iconic speech (which garnered worldwide attention). Through the context of Rory's stories and memories, the history of gay rights in Ireland is inevitably touched upon; as he looks back on his underground clubbing days when it was still illegal to be gay, through to his passionate opinions on the fight for marriage equality.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this memoir, witch was both frank and candid. Cant wait to go to Dublin and Visit the Pantibar!!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this memoir, witch was both frank and candid. Cant wait to go to Dublin and Visit the Pantibar!!!!
February 13, 2016
Panti Bliss, yes that same Panti of Irish drag fame, the one who made that 10 minute speech about homophobia on the stage of a theatre, is Rory O'Neill.
While thoroughly entertained, I did notice the change in tone 2/3 of the way through. For most of this autobiography, Rory is a quirky character who discovers drag and who seems to get himself into all sorts of silly situations just for the sake of it; for the sake of not being boring. Then Rory/Panti changes. They mature, become proper grown-ups. They are not the playful youth anymore. Rory/Panti own a bar, make speeches, cause serious, grown-up people drama, take on the role of the political activist, and end up inspiring so many people along the way. Rory himself admits that after the Pantigate drama, he needs to fight the instinct of self-censorship.
So I wonder if something is lost when a drag performer becomes famous enough to not just be that queen lipsyncing to that song at that bar. This seems sad to me. And here I am, finding sadness even in a book about a successful drag queen.
While thoroughly entertained, I did notice the change in tone 2/3 of the way through. For most of this autobiography, Rory is a quirky character who discovers drag and who seems to get himself into all sorts of silly situations just for the sake of it; for the sake of not being boring. Then Rory/Panti changes. They mature, become proper grown-ups. They are not the playful youth anymore. Rory/Panti own a bar, make speeches, cause serious, grown-up people drama, take on the role of the political activist, and end up inspiring so many people along the way. Rory himself admits that after the Pantigate drama, he needs to fight the instinct of self-censorship.
So I wonder if something is lost when a drag performer becomes famous enough to not just be that queen lipsyncing to that song at that bar. This seems sad to me. And here I am, finding sadness even in a book about a successful drag queen.
July 20, 2015
I'd learned a lot about Panti thanks to my Irish partner who introduced me to the moving, meaningful, and well orated Noble Call speech. We then fortunately stumbled upon her giving another speech at 2014 Dublin Pride which was a treat. In my years as a resident DJ in night clubs I have had the pleasure of meeting a variety of different queens and becoming familiar with their art and the people who work hard to pull it off. I have mad respect for what they do, the entertainment, and the message it can sometimes carry. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Rory/Panti better through this memoir, and learning about the experiences that compounded to make Panti who she is today. The book was well written, humorously delivered in the genuine and familiar voice from the public speaking I've heard from Panti, and I'd happily read it all over again! Looking forward to paying a first visit to Pantibar next month...
September 19, 2016
A beautifully written, entertaining and engaging memoir. Rory O'Neill discusses growing up in Ireland in the 70s; his career as drag queen Panti Bliss; as well as the events surrounding 'Pantigate' and that iconic speech (which garnered worldwide attention). Through the context of Rory's stories and memories, the history of gay rights in Ireland is inevitably touched upon; as he looks back on his underground clubbing days when it was still illegal to be gay, through to his passionate opinions on the fight for marriage equality.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this memoir, in which the author's 'voice' and opinions came across very clearly. He has the ability to write about issues in a passionate and moving manner but also portrays his great sense of humour, which often made me laugh out loud.
An interesting, entertaining and moving book, which I was engrossed in. My next move shall be purchasing 'Panti Bliss:The Queen of Ireland' documentary DVD!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this memoir, in which the author's 'voice' and opinions came across very clearly. He has the ability to write about issues in a passionate and moving manner but also portrays his great sense of humour, which often made me laugh out loud.
An interesting, entertaining and moving book, which I was engrossed in. My next move shall be purchasing 'Panti Bliss:The Queen of Ireland' documentary DVD!
September 17, 2015
Like most Belgians I had never heard of Panti Bliss, Rory O'Neill's drag alter ego, before when I saw his moving public address in the Abbey Theatre on homophobia pass by on Facebook earlier this year. I happened to be in Dublin when this memoir had just appeared and couldn't resist taking a copy home. It turned out to be an excellent decision. 'Woman in the Making is a great read, a well-written account of a small-town boy growing up in a all too straight world, finding his place in the gay scene, discovering drag and creating his own niche. It's funny, endearing and insightful. Highly recommended.
April 15, 2015
This is a great book. Rory O'Neill, can certainly put words together in an interesting, funny, witty & thought provoking way. You can nearly sense a tone of 'This is Me, I'm not hiding anymore or sugar coating things' from this book (well I did anyway).
Rory documents his life as Panti Bliss from the start to the present day (some parts in graphic detail) and it's refreshing to read such an honest report. As well it's also tinged with sadness that being 'gay' led to a life of feeling 'oppressed' and having to 'check himself' when out & about (as spoken about in Panti's Noble Call).
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Panti has a voice in this country, and thank god she does!
Rory documents his life as Panti Bliss from the start to the present day (some parts in graphic detail) and it's refreshing to read such an honest report. As well it's also tinged with sadness that being 'gay' led to a life of feeling 'oppressed' and having to 'check himself' when out & about (as spoken about in Panti's Noble Call).
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Panti has a voice in this country, and thank god she does!
April 27, 2016
Totally enjoyable reading: funny and witty. Rory O'Neill's writing made me laugh during one of the toughest time in my life, when I lost one person extremely lovable and close to me. The book frames a chunk of Irish culture during the 80s and 90s. Adding how the very same old fashioned culture has changed within a decade. Panti Bliss deserves various prizes but the main one should be for her public appearance and speech. Thank you Rory for "giving birth"to such a Drag queen.
November 17, 2014
Rory or more commonly known as Panti has a way with words that just makes you stop and listen. Which is why his Noble Call speech has been viewed by so many. It was great to get to read this memoir to get to know the face behind our much loved Panti Bliss. Fantastic read would recommend everyone to read it
December 8, 2014
I expected something rather light and shallow but it turned out to be a thought-provoking read with some heavy punches, while keeping it witty and entertaining. A very important, brilliant book. I absolutely recommend it.
January 24, 2015
Loved learning about the antics of Panti. The book is funny and very interesting for somebody who doesn't know that much about the Irish gay scene pre decriminalization.
I would have liked more chapters because of pure nosiness but I guess that is a plus if I am wanting more.
I would have liked more chapters because of pure nosiness but I guess that is a plus if I am wanting more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews