Brendan Gleeson Makes Praised West End Debut in 'The Weir' Revival

Brendan Gleeson makes a striking West End debut at age 70 in Conor McPherson's 1997 play The Weir, a poignant drama set in a rural Irish pub where locals share ghost stories to entertain a newcomer from Dublin. Gleeson portrays Jack, a garage owner whose quiet dignity and reflective presence anchor the play, culminating in a deeply affecting monologue about regret and a life unlived. The production, directed by McPherson himself, is praised for its naturalistic setting and the strong ensemble cast including Owen McDonnell, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Seán McGinley, and Kate Phillips, who bring humor, warmth, and complexity to their characters. Critics highlight the play's balance of levity and depth, with its exploration of themes like loneliness, trauma, and the supernatural through intimate storytelling. While some find certain moments of humor clichéd or overdone, the overall atmosphere and performances, especially Gleeson's, are celebrated for their emotional resonance and authenticity. This revival offers a rare and absorbing theatrical experience, emphasizing human connection amidst rural isolation.