J.M. Synge’s The Playboy of the Western World was first staged in the Abbey Theatre in 1907, depicting the humor, colloquialism, and struggle of rural life in the West of Ireland. A hundred years later the story is retold by Nigerian-Irish playwright, Bisi Adigun and one of Ireland’s best-known writers, Roddy Doyle. The original western farmers and villagers are now tough Dublin gangsters. The scallywag, runaway playboy of the story Christy Mahon is re-imagined as Nigerian refugee, Christopher Malomo. This adaptation presents modern-day, urban Ireland and highlights the changes that have occurred in the country, including the issues of immigration, inequality, and urban gangland crime. The script was first commissioned by Adigun’s theatre company, Arambe Productions, Ireland’s first and only African Theatre Company.
Artistic Director Rex Daugherty shares, “Playboy is arguably Ireland’s most famous play, and this contemporary adaptation showcases the comedy and dramatic power that Synge originally captured, while simultaneously reframing the context to include the multi-cultural identity of modern Ireland. It’s a remarkable piece of writing and I’m so proud Solas Nua will be producing the US premiere!”
“a hugely entertaining, often laugh-out-loud funny…superb piece of theatre”
— The Irish Times
“Adigun and Doyle’s impulse to tell a new story through Synge honors the author and argues for the play’s continuing relevance.”
— Variety
"a marvellous adaptation…a post-modern piece reflecting contemporary Irish society…refreshingly ironic…carefully portrayed”
— British Theatre Guide