IRISH THEATRE NEWS

August 11After decades of commanding the screen in films like THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN, Brendan Gleeson is making a triumphant return to his theatrical roots. The Oscar, BAFTA, Golden Globe-nominated, and Emmy-winning actor is set to make his long-awaited West End debut in Conor McPherson’s haunting masterpiece THE WEIR, marking not just a career milestone but a profound homecoming for one of Ireland’s most celebrated performers. Gleeson’s journey back to the stage represents more than a simple career pivot. While audiences worldwide know him as the formidable Mad-Eye Moody or the gentle Uncle Pastuzo, his theatrical foundation runs deep. His return to live performance feels particularly poignant as he takes on the role of Jack in his native Dublin before transferring to London’s Harold Pinter Theatre, bridging the gap between his Irish heritage and international acclaim. THE WEIR itself is a play that demands the kind of nuanced, lived-in performance that Gleeson has perfected over his career. McPherson’s modern classic unfolds on a stormy night in an isolated Irish pub, where four local men’s routine evening is transformed by the arrival of Valerie, a mysterious woman whose presence unleashes a cascade of increasingly unsettling tales. The stories they tell to impress her become windows into deeper truths about loneliness, connection, and the ghosts that haunt rural Irish life. For Gleeson, the role of Jack offers a perfect synthesis of his screen expertise and stage origins. Jack is both everyman and storyteller, a character who embodies the kind of weathered authenticity that has become Gleeson’s signature. The play’s exploration of human connection through storytelling mirrors Gleeson’s own career journey from the intimate world of theater to the global reach of cinema, and now back again to the raw immediacy of live performance. The production reunites Gleeson with a stellar Irish cast including Owen McDonnell from BAD SISTERS and KILLING EVE as Brendan, veteran actor Seán McGinley as Jim, Kate Phillips from PEAKY BLINDERS as Valerie, and Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, known for his powerful stage work in DANCING AT LUGHNASA, as Finbar. This ensemble brings together screen veterans and accomplished stage actors, creating the kind of theatrical alchemy that THE WEIR demands. Gleeson’s return to the stage after his remarkable film career feels like a natural evolution rather than a departure. The intimate scale of THE WEIR, with its focus on character revelation through dialogue and storytelling, plays to his strengths as an actor who can convey volumes with a glance or inflection. The transition from the 3Olympia Theatre in Dublin to the Harold Pinter Theatre in London will allow audiences on both sides of the Irish Sea to witness this master craftsman at work in his element. Instagram Youtube [...]
August 10When George Moore declared “Ireland is a little Russia” in 1911, he couldn’t have predicted how prophetic those words would prove for contemporary Irish theater. Now, over a century later, that connection finds its most compelling expression in Kabosh’s bold new adaptation of Chekhov’s THREE SISTERS, featuring Saoirse-Monica Jackson in what marks a significant return to her theatrical roots. Jackson, who captured hearts worldwide as the irrepressible Erin Quinn in DERRY GIRLS, brings her considerable talents back to the stage in this world premiere adaptation by Ciara Elizabeth Smyth. It’s a homecoming of sorts for the actress, whose career has flourished across both television and film in recent years, with notable appearances in THE CROWN and her breakout role that made her a household name. Her participation in this production represents more than just another credit—it’s a statement about the enduring power of live theater and the pull of meaningful storytelling. The production, directed by Marc Atkinson Borrull with designs by Molly O’Cathain, transforms Chekhov’s turn-of-the-century Russian provincial house into something distinctly Irish, building on Brian Friel’s 1981 translation that first premiered in Derry’s Guildhall. This isn’t merely cultural translation but artistic transformation, where the emotional entanglements of three sisters and their brother dreaming of Moscow become a meditation on Irish identity, displacement, and the universal human longing for something just out of reach. Jackson joins an impressive ensemble that includes Megan Cusack from CALL THE MIDWIFE, Lorcan Cranitch of THE CROWN, Breffni Holahan from THE NEVERS, Alex Murphy from THE YOUNG OFFENDERS, and Máiréad Tyers from EXTRAORDINARY. This casting demonstrates the current strength of Irish and British television talent willing to embrace the intimacy and immediacy of live theater, bringing their screen-honed skills to bear on Chekhov’s psychologically complex characters. What makes this adaptation particularly compelling is Smyth’s examination of nostalgia and the cyclical nature of history, themes that resonate powerfully in contemporary Ireland. The play’s exploration of characters trapped between past and future, unable to fully inhabit their present, speaks to a generation grappling with rapid social change while maintaining connections to tradition. Jackson’s involvement signals her commitment to projects that matter beyond mere entertainment value, choosing work that engages with serious themes while maintaining the sharp humor that has become her trademark. The rehearsed reading format, featuring fourteen actors including several DERRY GIRLS alumni, creates an intimate theatrical experience that strips away spectacle to focus on pure performance and language. This approach allows Jackson and her fellow performers to explore the nuanced emotional landscape of Chekhov’s characters without the constraints of full production, creating space for the kind of raw, immediate connection between performer and audience that defines great theater. For Jackson, this return to theater represents an artist at a crossroads, using her newfound prominence to champion meaningful work rather than simply capitalizing on her television success. Her choice to participate in this world premiere demonstrates a commitment to artistic growth and cultural contribution that extends beyond career advancement. It’s the kind of decision that marks the difference between a performer and an artist, between someone who acts and someone who uses their platform to engage with the world around them. Instagram Youtube [...]
August 2Nearly three decades after its debut, Marie Jones’ STONES IN HIS POCKETS continues to strike a chord with audiences worldwide, its razor-sharp commentary on Hollywood’s patronizing portrayal of Ireland as relevant today as it was in the 1990s. The latest production, currently running at Cork’s Everyman Theatre, brings this enduring classic full circle in the most unexpected way possible—as a genuine family affair that showcases not just the play’s timeless appeal, but also the remarkable trajectory of one of Northern Ireland’s most respected acting dynasties. At the heart of this production’s unique appeal is the involvement of Ian McElhinney, the veteran actor whose recent years have seen him transition from respected character actor to household name. While many know him as the stern patriarch Grandda Joe McCool in the beloved DERRY GIRLS, McElhinney’s career spans decades of distinguished work across stage and screen. His surprise cameo appearance in *Stones In His Pockets*, alongside his wife Marie Jones herself, adds an unexpected layer of authenticity to a play that has always been about the intersection of performance and reality. McElhinney’s presence in the production feels particularly poignant given his own journey through the entertainment industry. Having built his reputation through meticulous character work in productions ranging from GAME OF THRONES to countless Irish theatre productions, he understands intimately the world Jones created—one where local talent is often reduced to stereotypical roles while outsiders profit from romanticized versions of Irish culture. His cameo, brief though it may be, carries the weight of an actor who has navigated both sides of this equation throughout his career. The production itself, directed by Matthew McElhinney (Jones’ son), attempts to modernize the classic with digital projection backdrops and contemporary references, though these updates create an occasionally jarring disconnect. While the insertion of Amazon Prime references feels forced alongside the play’s otherwise period sensibilities, the core story remains devastatingly effective. Gerard McCabe and Shaun Blaney deliver bravura performances as Charlie and Jake, the two extras whose dreams and disillusionment drive the narrative forward. McCabe’s transformation into the flirtatious leading lady Caroline Giovanni with nothing more than an imaginary hair flick demonstrates the kind of theatrical magic that makes this play endure. Yet it’s the tragic undercurrent that gives STONES IN HIS POCKETS its lasting power. Beneath the comedy lies a story about economic desperation, rural decline, and the human cost of being treated as disposable. The play’s title references a heartbreaking event that serves as the emotional climax, and while this production doesn’t quite nail the tonal shift from comedy to pathos, the underlying themes remain potent. The fictional film-within-a-play, THE QUIET VALLEY, serves as a perfect metaphor for how Irish culture is often packaged and sold back to the world as something quaint and harmless. The production’s most satisfying moment comes in its final flourish—a trailer for Charlie and Jake’s own movie featuring several well-known faces, providing the kind of Hollywood ending that feels both earned and subversive. It’s a reminder that STONES IN HIS POCKETS has always been about more than cultural commentary; it’s about the universal human desire for recognition and the stories we tell ourselves about success. For Ian McElhinney, whose recent career renaissance has included everything from the blood-soaked political machinations of GAME OF THRONES to the gentle humor of DERRY GIRLS, this return to Marie Jones’ work represents a homecoming of sorts. His involvement, however brief, connects the play’s original vision with its contemporary relevance, bridging the gap between the Ireland of thirty years ago and the one audiences see today. As STONES IN HIS POCKETS continues its run at the Everyman Theatre through August 10th, it serves as both entertainment and time capsule, a reminder that some stories transcend their original moment to become permanent fixtures in our cultural landscape. With the McElhinney family’s involvement, this production becomes something more—a testament to the enduring power of Irish storytelling and the artists who continue to shape it across generations. Instagram Youtube [...]
May 6In a momentous theatrical event, acclaimed actor Brendan Gleeson is set to make his triumphant return to the stage after a decade-long absence in Conor McPherson’s haunting masterpiece THE WEIR. This special production marks several significant milestones as McPherson directs his own work for the first time since writing it nearly thirty years ago, while Gleeson, whose recent screen performances in THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN and IN BRUGES have cemented his status as one of Ireland’s greatest acting talents, will make his West End debut. The announcement from Landmark Productions and Kate Horton Productions has already created tremendous anticipation among theatre enthusiasts. Gleeson, whose last stage appearance was in THE WALWORTH FARCE at Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre in 2015, will return to that same venue where he began his career, performing from August 8 to September 6 before transferring to London’s Harold Pinter Theatre for a run extending to December 2025. “Conor McPherson’s THE WEIR is one of the rarest plays around,” Gleeson remarked, expressing his excitement about returning to the stage and making his West End debut. McPherson himself shared his disbelief that thirty years have passed since writing the play, calling it “an absolute honour” to bring it to life again with “one of the great titans of Irish acting.” THE WEIR, a profound meditation on human connection, takes place on a stormy night in rural Ireland where four local men gather in an isolated pub. Their usual banter is disrupted by the arrival of a woman named Valerie, leading them to share increasingly unsettling stories to impress her, unaware that she carries a deeply personal tale of her own that will shake them all. The play stands as a testament to our fundamental need for connection, the possibility of finding hope in darkness, and the enduring power of storytelling. Kate Horton described being “spellbound” by the play at its Royal Court premiere and expressed joy at bringing together such titans of Irish and international theatre. Anne Clarke of Landmark Productions recalled the thrill of learning about the project, having previously worked with Gleeson on THE WALWORTH FARCE alongside his sons Brian and Domhnall. This new production promises to be an extraordinary theatrical event, bringing together a legendary actor at the height of his powers with one of contemporary drama’s most moving and profound works, offering audiences in both Dublin and London a rare opportunity to witness theatrical magic in the making. [...]
April 30In a significant theatrical announcement, Aidan Turner will star alongside Lesley Manville and Monica Barbaro in an eagerly anticipated revival of LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES at London’s National Theatre. This marks the first time Christopher Hampton’s celebrated adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ scandalous novel will grace the National’s stage, with performances expected to begin in spring 2026. The production reunites acclaimed director Marianne Elliott with the venue after a nine-year absence, forming a centerpiece of Indhu Rubasingham’s inaugural season as Artistic Director. For Turner, this role represents another prestigious addition to a career that has evolved dramatically since his breakout in POLDARK. The Irish actor has strategically balanced his screen work with challenging stage performances, including his critically lauded turn in Martin McDonagh’s THE LIEUTENANT OF INISHMORE. Turner will share the stage with BAFTA and Olivier Award-winner Manville, who joins fresh from her triumphant, award-winning performance in OEDIPUS at Wyndham’s Theatre—a production now Broadway-bound. Completing the high-profile casting trio is Barbaro, known for her role in TOP GUN: MAVERICK. The creative team assembling around this production includes set designer Rosanna Vize, costume designer Natalie Roar, movement director Tom Jackson Greaves, lighting designer James Farncombe, and sound designer Ian Dickson. Elliott’s return to the National, where her previous credits include ANGELS IN AMERICA, THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, and co-direction of WAR HORSE, promises to bring fresh perspective to Hampton’s 1985 adaptation, known for its sharp wit, psychological complexity, and themes of manipulation and seduction. While exact dates, further casting details, and ticket information remain forthcoming, the production’s announcement as part of a 16-show season signals Rubasingham’s ambitious artistic vision for one of the world’s leading theatrical institutions. [...]
April 25John Carney’s beloved 2016 film SING STREET continues its artistic journey as it prepares for its UK stage premiere at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre this summer. The musical adaptation, running from July 8 to August 23, 2025, brings the ’80s-infused coming-of-age story to British audiences following successful runs in Boston and New York. In an exciting casting announcement, Adam Hunter will make his musical theatre debut as Brendan, a fitting role considering his history with the production. Hunter featured prominently on the original film soundtrack and served as the featured vocalist on the OST version of “To Find You.” To commemorate this full-circle moment, producers have released a new track titled “Outside,” performed by Hunter, which offers a glimpse into Brendan’s character—a young man afraid to venture beyond his room into the world. “SING STREET has followed me throughout my career,” Hunter reflects. “Now, to be making my live theatre debut with this beautiful stage adaptation, featuring an incredible set of songs from the movie with brand-new music for the stage is a dream.” Set in Dublin in 1982, SING STREET tells the story of sixteen-year-old Conor who forms a band to impress the mysterious aspiring model Raphina. Against the backdrop of family turmoil and the challenges of fitting into a new Catholic school, Conor discovers the transformative power of music and young love. The musical preserves the film’s exploration of these themes while expanding the emotional landscape through new compositions. The stage adaptation boasts an impressive pedigree of Tony Award-winning talent. Enda Walsh, known for his work on ONCE (another John Carney film adaptation), pens the book, while Rebecca Taichman directs. The music comes from Gary Clark (of Danny Wilson fame) and John Carney himself, combining beloved songs from the original film with fresh material crafted specifically for the stage production. Get your tickets at singstreet.com. [...]
April 15In a stunning testament to his artistic versatility, Andrew Scott’s groundbreaking one-man adaptation of UNCLE VANYA is extending its Off-Broadway run before even beginning performances, a reflection of the actor’s meteoric rise in recent years. The production, now set to start on March 10 and continue through May 11, 2025, brings Scott’s tour-de-force performance to American audiences at the Lucille Lortel Theatre following its acclaimed West End run and subsequent film capture. The innovative adaptation sees Scott embodying all eight characters in Chekhov’s classic drama, where a professor and his young wife visit their rural estate managed by family members Vanya and Sonya, setting off a chain of romantic entanglements and tensions that culminate when the professor announces plans to sell the property. Scott developed this ambitious theatrical experiment alongside adaptor Simon Stephens, designer Rosanna Vize, and director Sam Yates, with rehearsals recently commencing in London. Scott’s recent career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. While theater aficionados have long appreciated his stage presence in productions like HAMLET, PRESENT LAUGHTER, and SEA WALL, his mainstream popularity has surged through his mesmerizing performances in FLEABAG, RIPLEY, and ALL OF US STRANGERS. This latest venture highlights Scott’s continued commitment to challenging material despite his Hollywood success, returning to the American stage for the first time since his 2006 Broadway debut in THE VERTICAL HOUR alongside Julianne Moore and Bill Nighy. The production features an impressive creative team including lighting design by James Farncombe, sound design by Dan Balfour, video design by Jack Phelan, movement direction by Michela Meazza, music by Kelly Moran, and costume design by Natalie Pryce. Produced by Wessex Grove, Gavin Kalin Productions, and Kater Gordon, with Wagner Johnson Productions serving as executive producers, this extended run offers theatrical audiences a rare opportunity to witness one of today’s most captivating performers at the height of his artistic powers, transforming Chekhov’s ensemble drama into a singular showcase of his remarkable range. [...]
March 18Tennessee Williams’ haunting classic A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE has returned to New York with fresh wounds and raw nerves, now playing at Brooklyn Academy of Music in a stripped-down London import starring Paul Mescal, the Irish actor whose meteoric rise continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Fresh from commanding the Roman arena in Ridley Scott’s GLADIATOR II, Mescal brings a youthful vitality and magnetic presence to Stanley Kowalski, the role immortalized by Marlon Brando. His performance stands as testament to his remarkable versatility, seamlessly transitioning from epic historical blockbusters to intimate psychological drama with the confidence of an actor far beyond his years. Rebecca Frecknall’s minimalist production—running a brisk three hours—reduces Williams’ humid New Orleans setting to its bare essentials: a square platform suggesting a boxing ring without ropes, surrounded by darkness. A percussionist perched above the stage punctuates moments of tension and violence like audible manifestations of Blanche’s deteriorating psyche. This stark approach, which might have been electrifying in a smaller venue, sometimes struggles to connect across the expansive Harvey Theater, creating a self-conscious distance that works against the play’s inherent intimacy. Patsy Ferran’s Blanche DuBois trembles on the edge of sanity throughout, her jittery portrayal emphasizing the character’s fragility and impending psychological collapse rather than lingering in her faded Southern glamour. Unlike other recent productions—the 2009 Sydney production with Cate Blanchett that sold out BAM but never reached Broadway, or the disappointing 2005 and 2012 Broadway revivals with Natasha Richardson and Nicole Ari Parker respectively—this interpretation refuses to indulge in Blanche’s delusions of gentility or invite the audience to share in her fantasies. Frecknall, who previously divided critics with her Broadway revival of CABARET, opts for stylized movement and percussive punctuation over the dreamy, poetic atmosphere traditionally associated with Williams’ work. The violence feels gratuitous at times, the concept heavy-handed. Yet Mescal’s presence grounds the production, his Stanley representing another impressive credential in a career that has rapidly evolved from indie darling in NORMAL PEOPLE to commanding Hollywood star. As he continues this remarkable trajectory between stage and screen, this STREETCAR ultimately serves as further evidence of Mescal’s extraordinary talent and range, even when the production surrounding him fails to fully realize Williams’ tragic vision of desire and delusion in the American South. More Paul Mescal Mescal: IFTA Best Supporting Actor Paul Mescal in GLADIATOR 2 ALL OF US STRANGERS now streaming Mescal and Scott take The Co-Star Test [...]
March 13Andrew Scott, the Emmy-nominated star of FLEABAG and ALL OF US STRANGERS, has brought his tour-de-force performance to New York as Simon Stephens’s radical adaptation of VANYA begins previews at the Lucille Lortel Theatre. Fresh from his recent cinematic triumphs in ALL OF US STRANGERS and RIPLEY, Scott now reprises the Olivier Award-winning role that London critics declared “a revelation” during its acclaimed run at the Duke of York’s Theatre in late 2023. This isn’t just another revival of Chekhov’s classic—it’s a theatrical high-wire act where Scott inhabits every character in the 105-minute production. While luminaries like Laurence Olivier, Ian McKellen, and Peter O’Toole have grappled with the titular role throughout theatrical history, Scott breaks new ground by embodying the entire dramatis personae. The actor, who first captivated American audiences in the BBC’s SHERLOCK before achieving global recognition as the “Hot Priest” in FLEABAG, brings his remarkable emotional range to this innovative staging. The production, co-created by Scott alongside adapter Simon Stephens, director Sam Yates, and designer Rosanna Vize, “explores the kaleidoscope of human emotions, harnessing the power of the intimate bond between actor and audience to delve deeper into the human psyche.” Scott’s involvement extends beyond mere performance—his creative partnership with the production team reflects his growing artistic influence following his meteoric rise in film and television. Scott’s return to New York theater marks a significant moment for the actor, who made his Broadway debut in 2006 in David Hare’s THE VERTICAL HOUR. Now, with an Olivier Award and a BAFTA already secured, and coming off his critically acclaimed performance in Andrew Haigh’s tender ghost story ALL OF US STRANGERS, Scott confirms his status as one of our most versatile performing artists. The off-Broadway run is scheduled for just eight weeks with an official opening night set for March 18. Theater enthusiasts unable to secure tickets may find solace in knowing the London production is currently streaming on National Theatre at Home, though nothing compares to witnessing Scott’s transformative performance live. This limited engagement, executive produced by Wagner Johnson Productions, features the design talents of James Farncombe (lighting), Dan Balfour (sound), Jack Phelan (video), Michela Meazza (movement), and Natalie Pryce (costumes), with Marianna Gailus serving as Scott’s understudy. More Andrew Scott IFTV-Blog-16-180×180 Scott earns Golden Globes nomination Andrew Scott in PEOPLE WATCHING RIPLEY now on Netflix [...]
February 26DERRY GIRLS sensation Saoirse-Monica Jackson is set to captivate New York audiences in her Off-Broadway debut this spring. The beloved actress, known for portraying Erin Quinn in the hit series, will headline the world premiere of IRISHTOWN at the Irish Repertory Theatre’s Francis J. Greenburger Mainstage, running April 2 to May 25, 2025, with an official opening on April 13. This fresh comedy, penned by Ciara Elizabeth Smyth and directed by Nicola Murphy Dubey, delves into the chaotic world of a Dublin theatre company. As rehearsals progress, the cast grows increasingly concerned that their playwright has created something too experimental and insufficiently Irish. Taking matters into their own hands to restore authentic Irish elements, they inadvertently unleash theatrical mayhem. Jackson won’t be alone on stage – the production boasts an impressive ensemble including Tony nominee Kate Burton of GREY’S ANATOMY fame, Angela Reed from HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, and Purgatory star Kevin Oliver Lynch, with Roger Clark contributing voiceover work. The 31-year-old actress has been steadily building an impressive portfolio beyond her breakout role in Derry Girls. Her film credits include FINDING YOU, THE FLASH, and UPGRADED, while her television work recently expanded to include Netflix’s black comedy series THE DECAMERON alongside Zosia Mamet. This limited Off-Broadway run represents an exciting new chapter for Jackson as she transitions from screen to stage, bringing her distinctive talent to New York’s vibrant theatre scene. [...]

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Welcome to irishfilmtv.com (IFTV), a digital celebration of Irish on-screen culture and the perfect resource for lovers of Irish film and television!

Fully bilingual, IFTV showcases the very latest news and updates on Ireland’s most beloved actors, including interviews, reviews, production updates, release information and streaming links.

Spearheading the initiative is Michael Barry. Michael’s strategic leadership has shaped content acquisition and programming strategies across Canada’s telecommunications giants and theatrical distribution landscape. His distinguished career includes Rogers, Bell, TELUS and Cineplex Entertainment, where he has driven innovation in content licensing and programming initiatives. 

A respected curator in the international film festival circuit, Michael has served on programming teams for several prestigious institutions. He has contributed his expertise to Hot Docs Canadian International Film Festival, North America’s largest documentary festival; the Gimli International Film Festival, Manitoba’s premier film event; and co-founded the Toronto Irish Film Festival in 2010, establishing a vital cultural bridge between Canadian and Irish cinema. 

Michael’s creative accomplishments extend to filmmaking, where his directorial debut documentary THE WEXFORD garnered critical acclaim, securing the Audience Choice Award at the Scarborough Worldwide Film Festival. The film’s cultural significance has been recognized through its permanent inclusion in the City of Toronto Digital Archives, preserving an important piece of Toronto’s community history. 

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to international cultural exchange, Michael was awarded the City of Belfast Global Ambassador distinction in 2019. This prestigious award acknowledges his decade-plus leadership of the Toronto Irish Film Festival and its instrumental role in creating platforms for emerging Irish filmmakers to reach global audiences, while strengthening the cultural ties between Ireland and North America. 

Michael currently serves as Outreach Manager for the Toronto Film School, Canada’s #1 film school, supporting the creative aspirations of emerging Canadian actors, screenwriters, graphic designers and video game developers.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

Ronan re-watches filmography

Ronan re-watches filmography

Ronan re-watches filmography

Saoirse Ronan takes a walk down memory lane as she re-watches scenes from her classic works. Between 2020 and 2024, Ronan’s film career continued to demonstrate her versatility as an actor. She appeared in AMMONITE alongside Kate Winslet in 2020, playing Charlotte Murchison in the historical drama. In 2022, she took on a lighter role in SEE HOW THEY RUN as Constable Stalker, starring opposite Sam Rockwell in the 1950s-set murder mystery comedy.

The year 2024 has proved particularly significant for Ronan’s career, featuring in three notable films: THE OUTRUN, FOE (a science fiction thriller with Paul Mescal), and BLITZ, which releases on Apple TV+ on November 22, 2024. Both THE OUTRUN and BLITZ have generated considerable awards buzz.

THE OUTRUN also marked an important milestone as Ronan’s first venture into production, which she undertook alongside her husband Jack Lowden. Speaking to Digital Spy about this new role, she described it as “exactly what I needed,” explaining that it helped her “think about the bigger picture” and allowed her to focus her energy on working with others in a different capacity.

If Ronan receives Oscar nominations for either THE OUTRUN or BLITZ, it would mark her fifth nomination (potentially sixth if nominated for both). This would add to her impressive track record of Academy recognition, which began with her breakthrough role in ATONEMENT, for which she received a Best Supporting Actress nomination.

Irish Film

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Ronan shines in Elle magazine feature

Ronan shines in ELLE magazine feature

Ronan shines in ELLE magazine feature

In a revealing new interview with ELLE magazine, Irish actress Saoirse Ronan shares lots of personal details. Ronan stands at a fascinating turning point in her career, taking on roles that challenge her accessible image. Her latest venture, THE OUTRUN, sees her not only starring but stepping into a producer role alongside her husband, Jack Lowden. The film, based on a memoir, pushed Ronan to explore the complex territory of addiction recovery – a subject that hits close to home.

“Addiction touched my life through people I love,” she reveals, her voice softening. “You start with anger, with this impossible question: ‘Why can’t they just stop?’ But gradually, you learn to see it as the illness it truly is.” She pauses, considering her words carefully. “Taking on this role became my way of processing that journey, of understanding what I couldn’t before.”

This introspective project runs parallel to her work in Steve McQueen’s BLITZ, a World War II drama that strips away the polished veneer of historical cinema. As a mother to a biracial child in war-torn London, Ronan confronts the uglier truths of British society during the Blitz – the racism that persisted even as bombs fell. The role marked several firsts: her debut as an on-screen mother and her first time performing musical numbers, for which she underwent intensive vocal training.

There’s a newfound boldness in how Ronan approaches her craft these days. “I used to worry about looking pretty, about staying within the lines,” she admits, deliberately contorting her face to make a point. “Now? I’m more interested in the mess, in the uncomfortable moments that make characters real.”

The conversation shifts to her upcoming directorial debut, a short film she’s writing. Her eyes light up when discussing how Greta Gerwig’s evolution from actor to filmmaker has inspired her own ambitions behind the camera. Yet there’s a touch of playful regret when she mentions missing out on BARBIE, alongside her frequent co-star Timothée Chalamet, due to scheduling conflicts. She laughs about it now: “We’re like jealous siblings, watching our favorite director make magic without us.”

At 29, Ronan has already spent two decades in front of the camera, but she’s clearly just getting started. Her trajectory suggests an artist increasingly willing to push boundaries, whether through producing, directing, or taking on roles that scrape away at her comfortable image as cinema’s approachable ingenue.

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🎬 HE'S BACK. After 8 years in "retirement," Daniel Day-Lewis returns to the screen in ANEMONE - and it's personal.

The three-time Oscar winner emerges from his artistic sabbatical for his most intimate project yet: a family drama he co-wrote with his son Ronan, who's making his directorial debut. 

World premiere at NYC Film Festival. October 3rd limited release. The legend continues. 🔥

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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From the Scottish Highlands to the boxing ring 🥊✨

Caitriona Balfe trades tartan for training gloves in THE CUT, Sean Ellis' brutal psychological boxing drama.

Our OUTLANDER queen steps WAY outside her comfort zone as Caitlin - wife, trainer, and witness to Orlando Bloom's obsessed fighter spiraling toward self-destruction.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Liam Neeson, bringing his particular set of skills to comedy! 🤣 

Get ready to see the Irish legend like never before in the new NAKED GUN, hitting theaters August 1st. 

He's nervous, Pamela Anderson's "madly in love" with him, and we're just here for the laughs!

New trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎭 From beloved DERRY GIRL to Chekhov star! 

Saoirse-Monica Jackson is trading the screen for the stage in Kabosh's bold new adaptation of THREE SISTERS at @gaiety_theatre.

Visit irishfilmtv.com for ticket links!

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Andrew Scott just landed a role in WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY alongside Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc.

Fresh off his chilling turn as Tom RIPLEY on Netflix, Scott continues his career renaissance with this December 2025 mystery. 

Between FLEABAG, RIPLEY, ALL OF US STRANGERS, and now joining Rian Johnson's beloved franchise - this man can do no wrong! 🎭

More via link in bio!

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🧟‍♂️ Ancient evil is about to wake up, and Jack Reynor is bringing the ULTIMATE supernatural nightmare to life! 

🔥 LEE CRONIN is set to unleash a MUMMY film that'll make you NEVER look at horror the same way again. Filming kicks off in Ireland next week, promising a bone-chilling ride that'll haunt your dreams!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎭 From LOVE/HATE to the West End! 

IFTA winner Tom Vaughan-Lawlor is taking on Conor McPherson's haunting masterpiece THE WEIR alongside Brendan Gleeson, Owen McDonnell, and Kate Phillips. 

Dublin's 3Olympia Theatre (Aug 8-Sep 6) ➡️ London's Harold Pinter Theatre (Sep 12-Dec 6)

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson brings serious talent to Guy Ritchie's globe-trotting adventure FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH! 

From STAR WARS galaxies to treasure hunting expeditions, this Irish powerhouse continues to prove his incredible range. His mysterious billionaire character keeps you guessing until the very last frame ✨

Now streaming!

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Making Ireland proud on Hollywood's biggest stage 🇮🇪✨

Kerry Condon is breaking barriers as the Irish female lead in F1 - and doing it with her mam's Claddagh ring and that unmistakable Thurles accent intact 💍

Read more via link in bio!

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🍀 From THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN to SPIDER-NOIR, Brendan Gleeson continues to prove why he's Ireland's finest export!

Can't wait to see him bring his legendary intensity to the Marvel universe in SPIDER-MAN NOIR alongside Nicolas Cage in 2026. 

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎭 The incredibly talented Paul Mescal is starring in the upcoming historical romance, THE HISTORY OF SOUND, hitting theatres Sep 12th! 

This film made BIG waves at Cannes, and early reviews are calling it some of Mescal's best work yet.

More via link in bio!

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🎬 Jim Sheridan is BACK and he's not playing it safe!

The Oscar-nominated legend behind MY LEFT FOOT just dropped RE-CREATION at Tribeca - a bold courtroom drama that dares to ask: what if Ireland's most controversial cold case actually went to trial?

More via link in bio.

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📣 BREAKING: Irish legend Brendan Gleeson returns to the stage after 10 years! 

The star of THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN and IN BRUGES will headline Conor McPherson's haunting masterpiece THE WEIR, directed by McPherson himself for the first time.

From Dublin's 3Olympia to London's West End, don't miss this titan of Irish acting in his element. One of our finest exports bringing powerful storytelling back where it belongs—the stage! 🎭🍀

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 From "I will find you" to "I will make you laugh" - Liam Neeson is trading his particular set of skills for punchlines in THE NAKED GUN!

Is this Neeson's Leslie Nielsen moment? Could we be witnessing the birth of comedy's newest unlikely hero? 

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🏎️ From Thurles to the Formula 1 fast lane! 

Kerry Condon is earning rave reviews for her gutsy performance in F1 THE MOVIE, proving Irish talent (and accents) belong in the Summer's biggest blockbusters!

F1 THE MOVIE hits theaters Jun 27 🎬

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📽️ Don't miss FOUR MOTHERS in theatres Apr 4! 

This hilarious new comedy from A DATE FOR MAD MARY filmmaker Darren Thornton follows Edward, a novelist juggling literary success with caring for FOUR demanding elderly mothers when his friends dash off to Pride! 

Featuring the incredible Fionnula Flanagan and Ireland's own @pantibliss!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Andrew Scott's BLUE MOON trailer released!

Shot in Ireland, this Richard Linklater gem pairs Scott with Ethan Hawke for a 1943 Broadway drama that's already being called a masterpiece. Scott plays composer Richard Rodgers in what critics are calling his most nuanced performance yet 🎵

Watch trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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Gabriel Byrne brings his signature Irish intensity to the JOHN WICK universe! 🔥 

From IN TREATMENT to THE USUAL SUSPECTS to now BALLERINA, our Dublin-born legend continues proving why he's one of cinema's most captivating presences. In theatres June 6th.

Link in bio for more!

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IRISH TAKEOVER AT THE EMMYS! 🏆

🎭 Colin Farrell - completely transformed into THE PENGUIN's Oz Cobb (already won Golden Globe, SAG, Critics Choice!)
🎬 Sharon Horgan - dark comedy queen for BAD SISTERS
🌟 Ruth Negga - powerhouse performance in PRESUMED INNOCENT
📹 John Conroy - cinematography magic in ZERO DAY

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🍀 Ready to fall in love all over again? NORMAL PEOPLE hits Netflix Aug 3!

The Irish series masterpiece is back on our tvs, and we can all witness the on-screen magic that Marianne and Connell gave us back in 2020 (when we really needed it!)

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🐎💔 The truth behind Katie Simpson's death will shock you!

DEATH OF A SHOWJUMPER exposes the dark secrets hiding beneath Northern Ireland's glamorous equestrian world. What started as a tragic accident investigation became a murder trial that no one saw coming.

More via link in bio!

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The BAFTA TV Awards just dropped, and our homegrown talent is CRUSHING IT!

Nicola Coughlan bringing comedy gold in BIG MOOD, Lola Petticrew slaying in SAY NOTHING, BLUE LIGHTS lighting up the drama category, and Graham Norton continuing to be the absolute legend we all know and love!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Anything more thrilling than watching @piercebrosnanofficial trade six-shooters with @samuelljackson?

THE UNHOLY TRINITY lands in theatres Jun 13, with our favorite Dublin-born 007 proving he's still got it at 71! 

Watch trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson is absolutely ace in ECHO VALLEY! 

Fresh off Guy Ritchie's FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH, this Irish powerhouse delivers another knockout performance as the menacing drug dealer Jackie Lawson.

Catch ECHO VALLEY in theaters now or stream on Apple TV+ June 13th 📺

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Irish heartthrob Aidan Turner swaps his scythe for scandal in LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES at London's National Theatre! 

The POLDARK star continues proving he's not just a pretty face with this bold stage move alongside legends Lesley Manville and Monica Barbaro. 

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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📺 Celebrating 30 years of FATHER TED ✨ 

From Ted's exasperated outbursts to Dougal's adorable confusion and Mrs. Doyle's relentless tea-pushing, this legendary Irish comedy continues to make us howl with laughter three decades later. 

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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THE AGENCY just started filming Season 2 in London and we're absolutely here for Fassbender's career renaissance! 

From X-Men to spy thriller perfection - this man knows how to pick his projects 👑

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Magic happens when Irish storytelling meets world-class animation! 

Proud to see our very own @CartoonSaloon continuing to dominate with their stunning visual poetry. 

From the breathtaking WOLFWALKERS to the heartfelt SONG OF THE SEA, these Kilkenny wizards keep bringing Celtic magic to the global stage. 

Now with their new project JULIAN selected for Cannes, they're proving once again why Irish animation is unmatched!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Liam Neeson just crushed it as Frank Drebin Jr. in THE NAKED GUN and now he's diving headfirst into horror comedy with COLD STORAGE.

At 72, Neeson is still choosing the wildest projects and we're absolutely here for it. COLD STORAGE hits theaters next year! 

Watch the crazy trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬🔥 When Irish rap meets global politics - @kneecap32 isn't backing down!

From Coachella controversy to terror charges, this Irish-language trio has had one hell of a year...and a lot to say about it.

More via link in bio.

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🌟 Ruth Negga doesn't just act – she transforms. 

From her Emmy-worthy intensity in PRESUMED INNOCENT to her Golden Globe-nominated brilliance in PASSING, this Irish powerhouse continues to redefine what it means to inhabit a character completely.

Watch IN PROCESSS for Negga's take on craft and the pursuit of creation!

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📢 #u2 frontman Bono and Zane Lowe just dropped a conversation that goes WAY beyond your average interview.

We're talking deep dives into the soul of #SONGSOFSURRENDER, artistic vulnerability, and why even U2's most iconic tracks needed a fresh look.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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📽️ Rock legends meet cinematic magic!

@u2 front-man, Bono, brings BONO: STORIES OF SURRENDER to @appletv on May 30th.

The Irish rockstar's journey from Dublin streets to global stages gets the big-screen treatment from the director of THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES, with Brad Pitt's production company backing this incredible story. 

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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From FATHER TED to FRAN THE MAN, @ardalohanlon is comedy gold!

Now in Irish theatres, and also starring @amy_huberman and @peterjmcgann, Ireland's latest football mockumentary is a delightful slice of Irish football culture.

Get your movie times at irishfilmtv.com.

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Big Liam is back, this time in a tartan mini-shirt...

The 72-year-old TAKEN star is playing Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., the son of Leslie Nielsen's titular character, and in the film, he'll use his "particular set of skills" to lead a police squad and follow in his father's footsteps.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Pierce Brosnan's MODLAND earns 2.2M views on premiere day!

Our favorite Irish icon trades his suave spy persona for a ruthless crime boss in this record-breaking @paramountplus hit. Stream it now to see why everyone's talking about @piercebrosnanofficial darkest role yet.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Hollywood heavyweights Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander as... otherworldly beings? 👀

Na Hong-jin is BACK! After 10 years since THE WAILING left us speechless, the master of psychological horror returns with HOPE - hitting theaters next summer!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 JUST IN: Our very own Domhnall Gleeson teams up with legendary director Werner Herzog for BUCKING FASTARD.

Fresh off wrapping in Dublin, Sligo and Slovenia, this mind-bending tale features Gleeson alongside the Mara sisters and Orlando Bloom in what's bound to be Herzog's most captivating film yet!

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Liam Neeson is BACK in action mode and he's taking on more than just the ice. ❄️ 

In ICE ROAD: VENGEANCE, the stakes are personal, and the action is relentless. Get ready for an epic ride! 

More at irishfilmtv.com!

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🎬 From HUNGER to BLACK BAG, Michael Fassbender has been serving up acting masterclasses that'll make your jaw drop!

Who else can go from playing Bobby Sands to absolutely crushing it in Steven Soderbergh's latest thriller? 

Find out which film is Fassbender's personal fave at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎭 LEGEND RETURNS TO THE STAGE 🎭

From Mad-Eye Moody to Uncle Pastuzo, Brendan Gleeson has captivated us on screen for decades. Now he's making his WEST END DEBUT in THE WEIR! Dublin first (Aug 8-Sep 6) then London's Harold Pinter Theatre (Sep 12-Dec 6).

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎵 "Music to scare priests and politicians" 🎵

@celtic_utopia is shaking up everything you thought you knew about Irish folk music. This isn't your typical Celtic sound— it's raw, rebellious, and revolutionary.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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LIVE AID AT 40: WHEN ROCK N ROLL TOOK ON THE WORLD is now streaming on the @bbciplayer.

One billion people watched, $127 million raised and two Dublin lads who understood hunger turned celebrity into salvation.

Watch now via link in bio!

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🎬 When your childhood dreams collide with iconic music history ✨

Saoirse Ronan just delivered a masterclass performance in the FIRST-EVER music video for Talking Heads' PSYCHO KILLER - directed by the legendary Mike Mills!

From Oscar nominations to dancing through office life cycles, our Irish queen continues to prove there's no creative boundary she won't cross. 

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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🔥 Andrew Scott's unstoppable streak continues! 

Fresh off his haunting performance in ALL OF US STRANGERS, our favorite Irish talent is joining Netflix's star-studded TOO MUCH alongside Kit Harington, Jessica Alba, and Jennifer Saunders.

From hot priest to heartbreaking leading man, Scott proves once again why he's one of the most magnetic actors of his generation. TOO MUCH drops July 10th - and we're absolutely here for it! 💫

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Daniel Day-Lewis returns in ANEMONE

Daniel Day-Lewis returns to acting

Daniel Day-Lewis returns to acting

Daniel Day-Lewis is returning to acting in ANEMONE from Ronan Day-Lewis. The feature is from first time director Ronan Day-Lewis, the son of the 3x Oscar winning actor. Father and son wrote the screenplay which explores the intricate relationships between fathers, sons and brothers and the dynamics of familial bonds. The last time Day-Lewis was on the big screen was Focus Features’ Paul Thomas Anderson movie PHANTOM THREAD in 2017. Daniel Day-Lewis will star with Sean Bean, Samantha Morton, Samuel Bottomley and Safia Oakley-Green.

Day-Lewis is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, known for his intense method acting and selective approach to roles. He began his career in the 1980s with notable performances in films like MY BEAUTIFUL LAUNDRETTE (1985) and A ROOM WITH A VIEW (1985). His breakthrough came with MY LEFT FOOT (1989), for which he won his first Academy Award for Best Actor, portraying writer and artist Christy Brown.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Day-Lewis continued to showcase his versatility and commitment to his craft. He delivered powerful performances in films such as THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS (1992), IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER (1993), and GANGS OF NEW YORK (2002). His portrayal of oil tycoon Daniel Plainview in THERE WILL BE BLOOD (2007) earned him his second Oscar and is considered one of the greatest acting performances in cinema history.

Day-Lewis’ later career was marked by his continued excellence and increasing selectivity. He won a third Oscar for his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Steven Spielberg’s LINCOLN (2012). His final film before retiring was PHANTOM THREAD (2017), for which he received his sixth Oscar nomination. Throughout his career, Day-Lewis was known for fully immersing himself in his roles, often staying in character even when not filming, and for the long breaks he took between projects.

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SWING BOUT extends run in Irish theatres

SWING BOUT now in Irish theatres

SWING BOUT now in Irish theatres

By popular demand, a new Cork film is enjoying an extended theatre run in Ireland.

SWING BOUT is an intense crime/thriller set backstage at a major boxing event, tracing Tony Gale’s, played by Ciara Berkeley (THE DECEIVED, NORMAL PEOPLE), tumultuous journey from the dressing room to her ring walk in a night of deceit, betrayal, and life-altering decisions. Toni, like most boxers at the beginning of their fight career, has dreams of being a world champion, but, here on fight night, amid the bright lights and the chance to box in front of a huge TV audience on a major fight card, reality strikes hard and Toni finds herself low on confidence and even lower on cash. She becomes entangled in a web of corruption spun by her promoters, The Casey Brothers. They and her conniving coach tempt her into taking a dive against a hot prospect with connections to the underworld in exchange for a lucrative payoff.

As tensions mount in the dressing room, Toni wrestles with her conscience; a betting scandal brews within the underworld; illicit affairs are exposed involving her coach; The Casey Brothers face a potential murder inquiry; and Toni’s only real friend fights for her life due to inadequate medical attention after collapsing post-fight. Pushed to her physical and emotional limits, Toni confronts the brutal truths of the underworld and the sacrifices demanded by her dreams. With its gripping narrative and bold characters, SWING BOUT is an independent Irish made film that keeps the audience on edge.

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Irish Film

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Scott to reprise VANYA role

Andrew Scott to reprise VANYA role

Andrew Scott to reprise VANYA role

Olivier Award®-winning actor Andrew Scott (RIPLEY) will reprise his wildly acclaimed performance in VANYA, a radical new adaptation of Chekhov’s masterwork, UNCLE VANYA. Anton Chekhov’s timeless masterpiece has captivated audiences and influenced dramatists for more than 125 years, thanks to the emotional depth and subtle humor it brings to the exploration of unfulfilled dreams, existential yearning, and the complexities of human relationships.

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Irish Theatre

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