The Playboy of the Western World: The costumes and set design of Katie Davenport

In celebration of the theatrical release of NT Live’s THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD opening in cinemas on May 28th, Light House Cinema, in collaboration with National Theatre Live and Abbey Theatre, is proud to present an exclusive exhibition: “The Playboy of the Western World: The costumes and set design of Katie Davenport.” Hosted at the Light House, this special exhibition offers a glimpse into the remarkable costume and set design by the award-winning scenographer for the 2025 production of the John Millington Synge play, performed in the National Theatre in London. 

The exhibition showcases a collection of costume drawings as well as a 1:25 Scale Model of the set. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore reproductions from the Abbey Theatre archives regarding the original production of the piece in 1907, bringing the show’s riotous past and acclaimed present together in a celebration of Irish theatre. 

NT Live’s THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD — directed by Caitríona McLaughlin — sees Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) join Éanna Hardwicke (Saipan) 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…  

The production, filmed live on stage at the National Theatre to replicate the theatre experience as closely as possible, will open nationwide on May 28th, offering Irish audiences a chance to experience this fresh take on the classic play from their local cinema.  

The exhibition is open to the public at Light House Cinema in Smithfield Square from May 28th - June 8th.