Jez Butterworth’s epic new play The Ferryman, a taut and tense thriller, is directed in the West End by Sam Mendes (best known for his direction of Bond film Skyfall).
“You can’t bury the past.” In Rural Derry, 1981, the Carney farmhouse is a hive of activity with preparations for the annual harvest. A day of hard work on the land and a traditional night of feasting and celebrations lie ahead, and the atmosphere is a jovial one. But this year they will be interrupted by a visitor, and dark secrets will be unearthed.
Inspired by real events connected to one of the production’s original cast members, The Ferryman explores fallout from The Troubles (the Northern Ireland conflict of the late 20th century), in particular the events surrounding the deaths of IRA hunger strikers. The show transports audiences to a farmhouse in festive mood – but destined to be overshadowed by the ghosts of the past.
The current company of The Ferryman includes Owen McDonnell (Single-Handed, RTÉ/ ITV; Paula, BBC) playing father figure Quinn Carney, Rosalie Craig (As You Like It, The Threepenny Opera, The Light Princess and London Road, National Theatre) in the role of Caitlin Carney, and Justin Edwards (The Thick Of It, BBC; The Man Who Invented Christmas; The Death Of Stalin) as Tom Kettle. The full company comprises 37 performers: 17 main adults, 7 covers, 12 children on rota – and 1 baby.
The Ferryman won widespread critical acclaim when it opened at the Royal Court earlier in 2017, earning 15 five star reviews. It became the fastest selling show in the theatre’s history before transferring to the West End’s Gielgud Theatre, receiving overwhelming demand and further rave reviews from audience members.
The Ferryman must end on 19 May 2018 at the Gielgud Theatre. Don’t miss your chance to visit the Carney Farmhouse. Book your tickets now.
Please note that performances for The Ferryman begin earlier than usual: Monday-Saturday 7pm, Wednesday & Saturday 1.30pm.
Please refrain from arriving with large bags as they will not be permitted inside the auditorium and may not be able to be stored in the Gielgud Theatre cloakroom.
Please note the animals which appear in this production are highly trained and experienced in being onstage, and are expertly cared for by a team of certified trainers, who ensure their welfare is safeguarded at all times. The producers work with the trainers and veterinary specialists to ensure the highest standards of wellbeing for the animals, following animal charity guidelines.
Dramas have a rich history in the West End; find out more about plays in London.