The National Theatre has released first-look images of The Playboy of the Western World, which opens tonight at the Lyttelton Theatre.
This new production of J.M. Synge’s classic Irish play is directed by Caitríona McLaughlin, Artistic Director of the Abbey Theatre, and runs until 28 February 2026.
The cast features Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as Pegeen Mike, Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) as Christy Mahon, and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) as Widow Quin.
Full casting includes Marty Breen as Sara Tansey, Declan Conlon as Old Mahon, Lorcan Cranitch as Michael Flaherty, Megan Cusack as Susan Brady, Naoise Dunbar as Jimmy Farrell, Matthew Forrest as Philly Cullen, Sallay Garnett as Nelly, Fionnuala Gygax as Honor Blake, Erin Hennessey as Fiddle Player, and Marty Rea as Shawn Keogh, with Susan Akintomide, Peter Mooney and Donncha O’Dea completing the ensemble.
Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming he’s killed his father.
Instead of being shunned, the killer Christy Mahon becomes a local hero. The welcome murderer wins hearts and races as he beds himself into village life. That is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene…
The creative team includes set and costume designer Katie Davenport, lighting designer James Farncombe, movement director Sue Mythen, sound designer Adrienne Quartly, composer Anna Mullarkey, and fight director Kevin McCurdy. Casting is by Alastair Coomer CDG and Naomi Downham.
Tickets start from £20 and are available now via the National Theatre website.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
