Conor McPherson returns to Old Vic with world premiere of family drama

Conor McPherson is to return to the Old Vic for the first time since 2017, directing the world premiere of his Irish family drama The Brightening Air.

The playwright, who also directs the play, brings the production to the London theatre from April 10 to June 14, 2025, with a press night on April 24.

It marks McPherson’s homecoming to the Old Vic, after presenting Girl from the North Country in 2017.

The Brightening Air is an exploration of "fate, family, and unseen forces in 1980s Ireland", following siblings Stephen and Billie and the arrival of an ex-clergyman uncle with an "unscrupulous plan".

McPherson, who is an Old Vic associate artist, said: "I’m so excited that my new play The Brightening Air will have its world premiere at the Old Vic.

"I’ve had such fantastic times at this historic building with its incredible audience. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone in the spring and sharing this new story."

Matthew Warchus, artistic director of the Old Vic, added: "It’s such an honour to welcome back Conor McPherson to the Old Vic. Indisputably one of the world’s greatest living writers, and a superb director to boot, Conor has long been a personal favourite of mine.

"Back in 2017, I invited him to create Girl from the North Country for the Old Vic and witnessed him weave his own distinct magic with that unique and wonderful show. So I am beyond excited to be premiering his funny, breathtaking and heart-wrenching brand new play, The Brightening Air, this coming spring."

The Brightening Air features set and costume by Rae Smith, lighting by Mark Henderson, sound by Gregory Clarke and movement and intimacy coordination by Lucy Hind.

Casting is by Serena Hill CDG, with voice coaching by Charlie Hughes-D’Aeth.