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Fish is a new play written by Sean O’Neil and directed by Fraser Scott.
Set in Donegal, Michael (Michael Dylan) is trying to beat the Guinness World Record for the length of time with his head in a bucket of water. He sees it as a tribute to the memory of his sister, who passed away when they were children, as the bucket was the last gift she gave him.
Pat (Alan McHugh) is helping train Michael for the task ahead and he’s neglecting his promises to his daughter Grainne (Mimi Millmore) to mark her mother’s passing. Grainne has taken up a new career reuniting lost pets with their owners in their small town.
O’Neill’s script is punchy and unpredictable. Fish is a fascinating exploration of how people handle grief differently, both between men and women and also across generations. It’s funny but also tragic as things come to light as the play progresses.
The stark contrast between the gravity of some of the conversations and the absurdity of Michael having his head inside the bucket is what makes Fish such a uniquely clever play. With strong performances throughout and sharp writing, this is a very well-rounded piece of theatre.
Photo credit: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan
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