National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World at Fairfield University Quick Center for the Arts

A celebrated Irish classic comes to the screen through National Theatre Live when The Playboy of the Western World is presented at the Fairfield University Quick Center for the Arts on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7 pm.

Written by John Millington Synge and directed by Caitríona McLaughlin, this acclaimed production stars Nicola Coughlan of Bridgerton, Éanna Hardwicke of The Sixth Commandment, and Siobhán McSweeney of Derry Girls. Filmed live on stage at London’s National Theatre, the play blends dark comedy, romance, and unexpected twists in a story of identity, reputation, and self-discovery.

The story follows Pegeen Flaherty, whose quiet life is disrupted when a young stranger arrives at her family’s pub claiming he has killed his father. Rather than being condemned, the newcomer quickly becomes a local celebrity and begins winning the admiration of the community. His newfound status is threatened, however, when an unexpected visitor arrives and challenges the truth behind his story.

Filled with humor, secrets, and memorable characters, The Playboy of the Western World remains one of the most influential works of Irish theater.

The Quick Center for the Arts is located at 1073 North Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $20 for Quick Center members, and $5 for Fairfield University students.

For tickets and additional information, visit https://quickcenter.fairfield.edu/2025-26-season-calendar/opera/nt-live-the-playboy-of-the-western-world.html.