Two actors are seen on the set of the National Theatre Live production The Playboy of the Western World. A man sits leaning back on a desk while a woman leans over him from behind the desk.

NT Live: The Playboy of the Western World

  • Cinema
  • Playhouse
  • Run time: 155 minutes, one 20 minute interval Subject to change
  • Seating map

United Kingdom | 2026 | English | Drama | CTC

Bringing the best of British theatre to the cinema screen, our National Theatre Live series continues with the Australian Premiere of the new production of The Playboy of the Western World.

Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synge’s riveting play of youth and self-discovery.

Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene...

Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Caitríona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets.

Presented by Sydney Opera House

Event details

A sumptuous production, rich in detail, craft and spectacle

Guardian

Two of Ireland’s best-loved comic actors go head-to-head

Independent

Cast and credits

Writer John Millington Synge
Director Caitríona McLaughlin
Pegeen Mike (Margaret Flaherty) Nicola Coughlan
Christy Mahon Éanna Hardwicke
Widow Quin Siobhán McSweeney

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Attending this event

Plan your visit

Address

Sydney Opera House
Bennelong Point
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia

Getting to the venue

The Opera House is a 7-10 minute walk from Circular Quay, and is easily accessible by car, train, ferry, lightrail, bus, bike and on foot.

Location and access

Playhouse

The Playhouse is located in the north-western corner of Sydney Opera House, best accessed through the Western Foyers.

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