Brendan Murray's tender new semi-autobiographical play is a production where the story itself takes centre stage, offering a moving exploration of human connection that resonates deeply. The story is really what keeps everything moving, navigating the complexities of loss with a sincerity that feels both authentic and easy to follow. Even though themes of grief and recovery are ones that have appeared in various films and plays over the years, the emotional weight of this particular script is undeniable.
The play happens on a very simple stage with just a table and a few chairs. It begins with Terry, played by Murray, an older man in his seventies who is dressed in pyjamas. The quiet mood changes quickly when Matt, played by Darren Cheek, shows up at the door. Matt is a middle-aged man in a leather jacket who is clearly holding back a lot of anger. He is there to drop off a package that belonged to his father, Barry, who has just died. Inside is a letter that changes everything, revealing that Barry and Terry were actually in a secret relationship for thirty-five years.
The second act takes the audience to the day of the funeral. Matt and his mother, Jill, played by Karen Spicer, have returned from the wake at a nearby hotel. While Matt heads back to the hotel to handle some logistics, Jill stays behind and has a final talk with her husband. She speaks about the memories they created together, finally having the conversation that the two of them did not have for over thirty years.
While the story is the primary driver of the production, the cast provides the necessary skill to bring these characters to life. Murray, Cheek, and Karen Spicer each deliver performances that are grounded and effective. Their work on stage feels natural and cohesive, allowing the audience to focus on the journey of the characters without distraction. This balance between a strong, heart-wrenching story and capable acting makes the play feel like a complete and well-rounded piece of theatre.
Ultimately, the production succeeds because it trusts the power of its central message. It is a story that knows how to find beauty in difficult moments, and the final result is a play that feels both honest and hopeful. For anyone looking for a night of theatre that is easy to connect with and stays with you after the curtain call, this is a very solid choice that proves some stories are worth revisiting, regardless of how many times they have been told.