Simone Collins returns to the London stage in Reunion, the gripping new drama by Mark O’Rowe, opening at Kiln Theatre this September. The production follows acclaimed runs in Galway and Dublin, where it captivated audiences with its raw emotional power and razor-sharp dialogue.
Collins reprises the role of Holly, one of several family members brought together on a remote Irish island for a gathering that quickly unravels into confrontation. With a cast of celebrated Irish talent and O’Rowe’s signature psychological insight, Reunion promises a night of unforgettable theatre.
Reunion runs at Kiln Theatre from 11 September to 11 October 2025, with a press night on 17 September. Tickets are available now.
You’re starring in Reunion at Kiln Theatre – what can you tell us about the show?
Reunion is a family drama set on an Irish island, where a family gather to celebrate their late father and the times they spent there. However, when the past presents itself, things don’t necessarily go to plan and tensions rise. The play beautifully blends drama and comedy and will resonate with every family, whatever size.
Reunion has already had successful runs in Galway and Dublin. What has it been like returning to the role of Holly for the London premiere?
Our original run was a complete joy to be a part of, from the beginning of rehearsals to being on stage every night. It was all too short though, so to be returning now is so wonderful.
I always adore working with Mark O’Rowe and doing a play like this just never gets old. It’s so rewarding. Holly holds a very special place in my heart so to be with her again is magic.
Mark O’Rowe’s writing is known for its emotional depth and intensity—what’s it like performing his work on stage?
He’s like a composer of music. His words run together like a song, and we’re all members of the orchestra playing our instruments together.
Once you learn the words and the cues, which takes some time, you’re then able to soar in each scene because the rhythm is all there, and it’s so satisfying.
In terms of emotional depth, we’re all emotional beings, whether we like to think about it or not, and there’s a huge catharsis to performing this kind of work—the intense parts and the light-hearted parts. His writing is crystal clear in its emotion and truth, which makes me feel comforted and less alone in the world. Which I suppose is exactly what theatre should make you feel.
The story unfolds over just 24 hours on a remote Irish island. How does that setting and timeframe shape the drama and your performance?
The timeframe is almost like an 11th character. It’s so clever to have us in one big pressure cooker with nowhere to go.
No escape back to Dublin as the ferry only arrives at specific times, so we’re all stuck with each other. Inevitably, history is unearthed from the past and the repercussions manifest.
You’ve worked across stage, film, and television—how does this role compare to your recent screen work, like All You Need Is Death or Conversations With Friends?
Holly, at times, is not so far away from myself as a person. It’s really lovely to play something that feels so real and relatable.
It’s great when a character just fits like a glove and you can be confident in their shoes. And perhaps have the license to say a little bit more than you might get away with in real life!
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Reunion?
I know I’m biased but shows like Reunion only ever come along every few years. It’s filled with laughter as well as deep emotion and I always say to people it’s a truly entertaining piece.
I know an audience member who saw it three times last year and at the end he said, “Now all I need is Reunion the sequel!” So if that’s not a good sign, then I don’t know what is.
Reunion starring Simone Collins plays at Kiln Theatre in London from 11 September – 11 October 2025.
