The Playboy of the Western World

Old Vic Theatre, London

About the Show

Set in a small village on the west coast of County Mayo, The Playboy of the Western World tells the story of
lonely dreamer Christy Mahon (Robert Sheehan) who takes refuge in Michael Flaherty’s pub, claiming that he
has killed his oppressive father. Christy beguiles the locals with his tall and dramatic tale of bravery in the face of
danger and becomes an instant hero. He both charms the village women including Widow Quinn (Niamh Cusack)
and captures the heart of the landlord’s fiery daughter Pegeen (Ruth Negga). However, when his tale turns out
to be less straightforward than they first thought, the simmering violence of the villagers comes to light.