Sean O’Casey’s The Plough and the Stars Returns to the Abbey Theatre for Centenary Production
Tom Creed directs a new production of Seán O’Casey’s iconic play, The Plough and the Stars, at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, marking 100 years since its controversial premiere. The production runs from February 27th to April 30th, 2026, and promises a fresh perspective on this pivotal perform of Irish theatre.
A Play That Sparked a Riot
The Plough and the Stars, set against the backdrop of the 1916 Easter Rising, depicts the lives of ordinary Dubliners caught in the tumult of revolution. Its original production in February 1926 was met with outrage and rioting from audiences, due to its portrayal of the Rising and its characters. Now considered a masterpiece, the play remains a powerful and provocative exploration of Irish history and identity.
New Production, Enduring Themes
Directed by Tom Creed, this new staging aims to honor the play’s legacy while reflecting its continued relevance. Creed describes the production as a “lens through which to look at the past, and a mirror to reflect the present moment,” utilizing deliberate blankness in set design to encourage audiences to connect the play’s themes to contemporary conflicts. The production explores the fragmentation and trauma experienced by characters amidst national chaos, mirroring O’Casey’s shift towards more expressionistic and experimental work.
Performance Details and Accessibility
Performances of The Plough and the Stars will take place on the Abbey Stage from Monday to Saturday at 7:30 pm, with Saturday matinees at 2:00 pm and additional Wednesday matinees on April 8th and 22nd. The running time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an interval. Tickets range from €15 to €54, plus a booking fee.
The Abbey Theatre is as well offering several accessible performances:
- Sign Language Interpreted Performance: April 11th, 2026, at 2:00 pm
- Touch Tour of Stage and Set: April 18th, 2026, at 12:00 pm
- Audio-Described Performance: April 18th, 2026, at 2:00 pm
- Captioned Performance: April 18th, 2026, at 2:00 pm
A Centenary Programme is available for purchase at the Box Office for €8.
Recent Reflections on the Play
Recent events in Dublin, including riots during a dress rehearsal of another Abbey Theatre production, The Quare Fellow, have underscored the enduring power and relevance of O’Casey’s work. As Creed noted, “It seems like we might need O’Casey and this play more than ever.”
Cast and Creative Team
The cast includes Mary Murray and Kate Stanley Brennan. The set design is by Jamie Vartan.
Booking Information
Tickets for The Plough and the Stars can be booked through the Abbey Theatre website: https://www.abbeytheatre.ie/whats-on/the-plough-and-the-stars-2026/
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