The Night Alive

What happens when people on the fringes of society find themselves in a rundown Dublin flat?

Strife, questions, and the possibility of that last chance after so many. In Irish playwright Conor McPherson’s The Night Alive people are damaged and imperfect, but not resigned to personal oblivion – not yet. Central character Tommy, played by John O’Hare, is down on his luck, estranged from his wife and children, and broke. He’s moved into his uncle’s bedsit, sharing it with his sidekick, Doc.

“It’s like a symbiotic relationship,” says O’Hare. “He almost works as a slave but is needed to keep Tommy company.” O’Hare, a veteran actor and director, describes The Night Alive as Tommy’s journey from beginning to end.

Directed by Maeliosa Stafford in association with O’Punsky’s Theatre, the production marks yet another collaboration between Red Line Productions and the emerging force of independent theatre.

The Night Alive arrives with a rather grand pedigree, with numerous awards and productions in London and New York. McPherson has gained a reputation for defying easy categories, and it seems this production will continue to so.

Until Oct 14. Old Fitz Theatre, 129 Dowling Street (Cnr Cathedral Street). $30-$42. Tickets & Info: www.redlineproductions.com.au

By Olga Azar