The Seafarer at Greenwich Theatre

Conor McPherson’s The Seafarer is a masterclass in dark, comic Irish storytelling and the Putney Arts Theatre transfer their production to Greenwich Theatre with total confidence. The result is an authentic, engaging, and atmospheric evening which does total justice to the original script.

Set in a slightly run-down North Dublin home just before Christmas, the play follows two brothers and their friends in their slightly chaotic, alcohol-fuelled lives. It explores the relationship and loyalty between them as well as their struggles and secrets. Darker moments from their past re-emerge amongst the banter and ribaldry. And then there’s an unexpected visitor who disrupts their status quo.

From the moment the show opens, the environment feels completely real with the set design showing great attention to detail. Occupied and visited entirely by men, the room looks appropriately worn and lived-in without ever feeling claustrophobic on Greenwich’s wide stage. Subtle touches, such as the flickering candle beneath the Sacred Heart image on the stairs, the light in the window, and the glowing fire grate, all add depth to the space. The use of the off-stage areas was well done too so although we could only see one room, it did feel like a whole house. Well-observed costumes, solid sound effects, and simple, effective lighting round out the production seamlessly. 

The cast handles McPherson’s natural, fluid dialogue with precise comic timing. Physical and verbal comedy balance the play’s darker and more supernatural elements effectively. This is a play that reveals secrets and the fallibility of the human condition with both a dose of reality and of the supernatural.

Eugene Duffy leads the company as James ‘Sharky’ Harkin. Duffy delivers a grounded, multi-layered performance, capturing Sharky's struggles and dark past intertwined with the reality of living with and caring for his older brother. Ian Cooke is equally strong as Sharky’s blind, ruffian brother, Richard. Playing sightless is a difficult technical challenge, but Cooke delivers it well. James Ross Turner stands out as Ivan Curry, serving as a brilliant foil to the two brothers yet has his own struggles and secrets which are revealed as the play progresses. Turner also brings some fantastic physical comedy to the role, making the hapless Ivan endearing and easy to root for.

The supporting cast completes this tight ensemble. Nick Thomas injects fresh energy and humor into the room as Nicky Giblin. Matthew Flexman brings gravitas to Mr. Lockhart. Flexman executes his late-play monologue with poetic precision, landing its full emotional weight. Throughout the night, the cast uses every inch of the stage, and the space offstage, to build a vivid world.

This is a rich, beautifully acted production that stays true to its North Dublin roots. This Go see it! Playing at Greenwich Theatre until 24 October 2026 with tickets for around £25. A bargain for a play of this quality. Book here https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/the-seafarer/