From Sorrow to satirical...
IRISH theatre is in great shape currently, and there are two fascinating plays currently running in Dublin that demonstrate this perfectly. Co-produced by the renowned Landmark Productions team, the new Marina Carr play Audrey or Sorrow opened at the Abbey Theatre on Wednesday. It’s a dark comedy that veers from off-the-wall scenes to intense and maudlin moments. The Scene enjoyed the longer pre-interval half of the show, but Aisling O’Sullivan was outstanding throughout as Audrey. The story ultimately revolves around a young couple David and Maria struck by a couple of cot death tragedies, but the tale gets a little convoluted with the introduction of Maria’s parents. There were fun performances too from Marie Mullen as Grass, Anna Healy as Mac and Nick Dunning as Purley. Legendary Irish actors Brendan Gleeson, Stephen Rea and Colm Meaney were all in the audience for the opening.
Audrey or Sorrow is well worth seeing and the run has been extended until March
30.
Meanwhile, at the Gate Theatre, The President is running until March 24 and by all accounts is unmissable.
This new production of
Thomas Bernhard’s 1975 play is directed by Cork man Tom Creed, co-produced with
Sydney Theatre Company and set for a tour to Australia.
The absurdist satirical text may be almost 50 years old, but it resonates uncomfortably in 2024 as it deals with the plight of nations and the power of egomaniac leaders.
The show features incredible performances from Hugo Weaving and Olwen Fouere, who play the president and the first lady of an unnamed
central
■DARK: Aisling O’Sullivan in Audrey or Sorrow
European state.
In the country there was an attempted assassination that resulted in the killing of the first lady’s beloved pet pooch.
They both rage in lengthy monologues against the anarchist uprising closing in around them.
A stunning stage set is a wall of mirrors that highlights the mindset of the leaders. The final scene’s unexpected theatrical twist has audiences on their feet.