The Seafarer
Five men, two brothers, one night playing cards, and an unlimited supply of alcohol. What could go wrong? How much are you willing to lose? Would you give your soul a second chance at life? What would you put on the line? Conor McPherson’s The Seafarer first appeared in 2006. Now, twenty years later, it returns in a new production. Produced by The Colour Noise and directed by Ian Higham, this is the play’s first major London revival since its original National Theatre premiere, and it’s at the Greenwich Theatre.
It’s Christmas Eve. James ‘Sharky’ Harkin (Eugene Duffy) has come home to look after his ageing, blind brother Richard (Ian Cooke). Richard hasn’t been taking care of himself, and the drinks are flowing a bit too freely. The evening turns into a card game with consequences far more dangerous than anyone expected, thanks to the arrival of the mysterious Mr Lockhart (Matthew Flexman).
With any revival, there’s a chance to find new textures and bring the text to life again. Higham’s direction balances things well. It stays faithful to McPherson’s writing but also brings out the lighter, comedic moments. The comedy flows as quickly as the alcohol on stage, but the production never shies away from the darkness of the piece. It’s a rare treat to see a show that is both very funny and very haunting. Higham has clearly put in the work to stage this revival and invite audiences back into the Harkin family living room. The set, designed by Simon Crump, is very detailed. From one Irish person to another, it could basically have been my own grandfather’s house. With Irish touches all around, from the Sacred Heart to the classic pan of Brennan’s Bread, it would make any Irish person homesick.
The five men have great chemistry that feels real and balanced. Eugene Duffy’s subdued, grounded Sharky is our emotional anchor against the formidable Mr Lockhart. You wonder what’s going on with Sharky, and in the rare moment when he loses it, we see just a hint of what he can do. Matthew Flexman gives a powerful performance as the sharply dressed Mr Lockhart. His presence leaves the audience feeling on edge as the drinks flow and the deals get deadlier. The sound design by Nick Wells is subtle but effective in these moments.
Thankfully, this is also a very funny play. Ian Cooke shines as Richard, our main source of wit. James Ross Turner is great as the aloof but kindhearted Ivan. Nick Thomas completes the cast as the rough and ready Nicky Giblin. The whole ensemble feels utterly authentic.
The cast and crew have clearly connected with the text and built on it, making a production that is strong all around. The play works well and gives every part its own moments. The Seafarer still hits hard today, just as it did twenty years ago. Ultimately, this is a fantastic night out. It will make you glad you don’t have the drama of the Harkin family at your next family gathering.
This show was reviewed on the 14th October 2026 at the Greenwich Theatre, London where it runs until the 24th October 2026. Tickets available here: The Seafarer - Greenwich Theatre
Review written by Mary Condon O'Connor
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Photo credit : Steve Lippitt
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