Three Short Plays

The Gate Theatre is proud to present the world premieres of plays by three of Ireland’s most prestigious contemporary writers, Brian Friel, Neil Jordan and Conor McPherson. Written especially for the Gate Theatre, each play examines the timeless themes of passion, love and loss.

The Yalta Game
by Brian Friel
(from a theme in Chekhov’s 1899 story).
directed by Karel Reisz; with Ciarán Hinds and Kelly Reilly

In this stunning short play Brian Friel examines a theme from Anton Chekhov’s short story The Lady with the Little Dog, which Chekhov wrote in Yalta in the autumn of 1899. He was then aged 39 and entering into a final period of remarkable accomplishment.

White Horses
written and directed by Neil Jordan
with Catherine McCormack and Peter McDonald

Although best known as a writer and director of award-winning feature films, Neil Jordan began his career as a writer of fiction. This, his first short play, is an original and imaginative exploration of the break-up of a relationship.

Come On Over
written and directed by Conor McPherson
with Dearbhla Molloy and Jim Norton

Come On Over is the intricately woven and enthralling story of Matthew and Margaret, childhood sweethearts who are now in their fifties. He is a Jesuit who investigates miracles for the Vatican, she runs a rural bed and breakfast. When he is sent to see the four hundred year old remains of a girl found in their home town, their worlds collide.

Set Designer Eileen Diss
Costume Designer Dany Everett
Lighting Designer Mick Hughes