This spring, The Old Vic is bringing something truly special to its stage: The Brightening Air, a brand-new play that I just know will leave audiences captivated. It’s written and directed by none other than Conor McPherson, the Olivier Award-winning talent behind The Weir and Girl from the North Country. If you’ve ever seen his work, you know he has this incredible ability to craft stories that linger with you long after the curtain falls. This one is no exception, diving deep into themes of family, memory, and those mysterious, unseen forces that shape us—all set in 1980s Ireland.
The story takes place in a crumbling farmhouse where siblings Stephen (Brian Gleeson) and Billie (Rosie Sheehy) are just getting by, living a simple, quiet life. That is until their world is turned upside down by some unexpected visitors: an ex-clergyman uncle with questionable motives (Seán McGinley), a sister-in-law searching for a miracle (Hannah Morrish), and a prodigal brother (played by the brilliant Chris O’Dowd) who seems to bring trouble with him wherever he goes. As the family’s lives intertwine and unravel, the play asks a haunting question: how much of living is really just forgetting?
At its core, The Brightening Air is a story about home—what it means, what it holds, and the secrets it can’t hide. Is a home just a physical place, or is it something more—a keeper of memories, connections, even magic? Conor McPherson masterfully weaves these deeply personal themes with a touch of the supernatural, creating a play that feels both heartbreakingly real and intriguingly otherworldly.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
What really sets this production apart is the talent both on and off the stage. The cast is simply phenomenal: Brian Gleeson, Rosie Sheehy, Seán McGinley, and Chris O’Dowd (yes, that Chris O’Dowd!) bring these complex, layered characters to life. And the creative team? Just as impressive. Rae Smith’s set and costume designs are known for their striking beauty, and Mark Henderson’s lighting is bound to pull you right into the heart of rural Ireland. Together, they’re creating a world you won’t just watch—you’ll feel.
The show runs from 10 April to 14 June 2025, so you’ve got a limited window to see this one-of-a-kind production. The Old Vic itself is a gem—intimate, historic, and the perfect place to experience something so evocative. Whether you’re already a fan of McPherson’s work or just dipping your toes into the world of theatre, The Brightening Air is sure to be a deeply moving experience.
Make a Night of It
Why not turn it into a proper evening out? The Old Vic is perfectly placed near London’s buzzing South Bank, so you can grab a pre-show bite at one of the many fantastic restaurants nearby, or just soak up the atmosphere before heading into the theatre.
Don’t miss out on this incredible world premiere. The Brightening Air is more than a play—it’s a journey, an experience, and a story that’s sure to stay with you long after you leave the theatre. Book your tickets now and get ready to be swept away.
BUY TICKETS FOR THE BRIGHTENING AIR
Performances: 10 April – 14 June 2025
Age Guidance: 14+
Running Time: TBC
Let The Brightening Air take you somewhere unforgettable.
The Brightening Air at The Old Vic
Performances from 10 April – 14 June 2025.
Age Guidance: 14+
Running Time: TBC
A thoroughly haunting story of the complex layers of family life. A brilliant production.
It’s a shame my view was restricted but I still managed to enjoy the performance