Audacious self-belief, eccentricity and the visceral, haunting power of storytelling.
Not a comedy nor a tragedy, this is a masterwork of poetic beauty.
Must we have faith in something to live with purpose? Where does truth end and pretence begin when the speaker believes both with absolution? And what actually happened on that fateful August evening at a pub in Ballybeg?
Brian Friel’s 20th-century masterpiece is a lyrical display of corroding morals and fragile self-belief. A devoted contemplation on faith and doubt, illusion and reality, deception and genius, explored through relationships that waver between reliable and ruinous.
As a Welsh director, Emma Baggott’s interpretation is a deeply personal celebration of the Celtic culture of storytelling masterfully displayed in the writing. The in-the-round auditorium creates a transformational and spiritual happening, reenergising our sense of magic in theatre as a collective shared experience.
Written by Brian Friel. Irish powerhouse playwright.
Directed by Emma Baggott. Associate Director here at the Royal Exchange Theatre.
Designed by Peter Butler. Award-winning scenographer and costume designer.
Produced by The Royal Exchange Theatre Company. An exchange of artistry, creativity and captivating connections.