Playwright David Ireland returns to the Finborough Theatre for the fourth time with a new production of his debut play, What The Animals Say, which will run for a strictly limited four-week season from 29 September to 24 October 2026.
Presented by Hallions Ltd in association with Neil McPherson for the Finborough Theatre, the production is directed by Harry Burton and stars Matthew Blaney and Robbie Martin.
First staged in 2009 at Glasgow’s Òran Mór as part of the acclaimed A Play, A Pie and A Pint season, What The Animals Say explores friendship, identity and division against the backdrop of Northern Ireland’s political and cultural tensions.
The play follows two former classmates waiting for the Stranraer ferry back to Belfast.
Jimmy is a struggling actor searching for a breakthrough role, while Eddie is a celebrity footballer and, despite being Protestant, captain of Celtic.
As the pair reminisce about football, Father Ted and their shared Unionist upbringing, old wounds begin to resurface and their reunion descends into confrontation.
Described as provocative, hilarious and explosive, the play examines the stories people tell themselves and each other, while reflecting on themes of tribalism, sectarianism and personal identity.
Burton directs Robbie Martin alongside Matthew Blaney, who returns to the Finborough Theatre after his OffWestEnd Award nominated performance in David Ireland’s Not Now.
Ireland has become one of the most acclaimed contemporary playwrights working today. His plays include Cyprus Avenue, Ulster American, The Fifth Step, Most Favoured, Everything Between Us, Yes So I Said Yes and Not Now, with several productions having previously enjoyed successful runs at the Finborough Theatre.
What The Animals Say will have press nights on 1 and 2 October 2026, ahead of performances continuing until 24 October.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
