In the final act, Molly succumbs to a fever, her death marked by isolation and heartbreak. Daniel believes her illness was exacerbated by the societal pressures she faced and the rejection she endured because of their love. Devastated, he vows to honor her memory and the values she represented.

As the musical approaches its conclusion, he rejects the elitist, British-aligned roots of his upbringing. He renames himself Daniel O’Connell, symbolizing a rebirth of his identity and a commitment to fight for Ireland’s future. Daniel pledges to champion a new, inclusive Ireland. The twist reveals that Daniel Lanigan is indeed the young version of the Irish revolutionary Daniel O’Connell, famously known as “The Liberator” for his pivotal role in championing Catholic emancipation and laying the groundwork for Irish independence. This revelation is a dramatic and transformative moment in the musical, tying the personal struggles of Molly and Daniel to the larger political and historical narrative of Ireland. This twist elevates the story from a poignant love tale to a sweeping epic about Ireland’s identity, history, and the enduring fight for justice and equality, leaving the audience stunned and moved.


The musical concludes with a somber yet hopeful reprise of Alive, Alive, Oh, as Molly’s spirit is celebrated. Daniel’s newfound purpose gives meaning to their love, leaving the audience with a poignant reminder of the enduring power of passion, identity, and sacrifice in shaping history.