Two men discover more than they bargained for as they drink and gamble the night away on the last night train from Holyhead.
The play follows a chance encounter between two men on a late-night boat train to London. When a mysterious Gypsy woman joins their carriage, what begins as a casual meeting gradually unfolds into something far more profound. Through her intervention, hidden truths begin to surface, revealing an unexpected connection between the men.
Rooted in real events from Ireland’s recent past, Last Train from Holyhead is a gripping and thought-provoking drama – full of tension, unexpected twists, and moments of humour.
“A story you’ll remember and are sad to have heard as you step off the train.” — Irish Theatre Magazine
Reflecting on the revival, writer and director Bernard Field says:
“Bringing Last Train from Holyhead back after a gap of 11 years and finding it as relevant as ever has been a great discovery for me. Some questions and issues, it seems, never get fully resolved and so always require further interrogation. The fantastic cast have been a joy to work with – they know how to deliver.”
The decision to revive the play comes in light of renewed public attention on the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam and the wider history it represents within Ireland’s collective memory.
Audience responses to the play highlight its emotional impact:
“An engrossing drama where characters bring us on a universal journey, revealing their past lives. A play which resonates long after reaching its final destination.”
“A very moving, engaging and thought-provoking piece, with intriguing twists in the tale that kept my attention right through.”
Following its performance in Thomastown, the production will tour to eight other venues across Ireland by the end of June 2026, before travelling to London in October. The production will be staged at the Thomastown concert hall on Saturday June 6 at 8p.m. Cast includes Michael Irwin and Sara Giammanco. Written and directed by Bernarn Field.
