Antagonist Productions Presents: The Weir

The play takes place in a pub in a small Irish village, where the bartender, Brendan, and his regulars, Jack and Jim, gather to drink and share stories. The arrival of Valerie, a woman from Dublin who has rented a nearby house, disrupts their routine. The men, initially skeptical of her presence, engage in storytelling that blends local folklore with their personal experiences.

As the evening unfolds, the men recount various ghostly tales, drawing from their own lives and the rich tapestry of Irish folklore. Valerie, who has moved to the area following the tragic drowning of her daughter, eventually shares her own haunting story, which shifts the mood and deepens the emotional resonance of the evening. Her tale reveals the pain of loss and the search for connection, contrasting with the lighter banter of the men.

The play explores themes of isolation, connection, and the human condition. The storytelling serves as a means for the characters to confront their own ghosts—both literal and metaphorical. The blend of humor and tragedy highlights the complexities of life in rural Ireland, where folklore and personal history intertwine.

By Conor McPherson, directed by Joe Ferrell