Dublin, Ireland – Una McKevitt’s darkly comedic play, Fair Deal, currently running at the Abbey Theatre, dissects the fraught dynamics of a family grappling with inheritance, aging parents, and long-held resentments. The production, which opened to critical attention on February 19, 2026, features a compelling performance by Aislín McGuckin as Sandra, a celebrity interior designer whose arrival in Dublin throws the already tense family gathering into further disarray. The play explores the complex emotional landscape surrounding the sale of the family home and the tricky decisions surrounding elder care, all while maintaining a sharp, often farcical, edge.
The narrative centers on the Thornton family as they navigate the practical and emotional implications of selling their childhood home following the death of their grandmother. Sandra’s estranged daughter, Kiera, intends to use the proceeds to forge a new life, free from the burdens of familial obligation. However, the situation is complicated by the presence of Kiera’s uncle, Terry, who lies in a coma upstairs, awaiting transfer to a nursing home, and the arrival of another uncle, Daragh, a working actor. McGuckin’s portrayal of Sandra, a woman driven by a potent mix of anger and entitlement, injects a volatile energy into the proceedings, shifting the play’s tone from domestic realism towards a more heightened, almost absurd, comedy.
Aislín McGuckin’s Commanding Performance
Aislín McGuckin, a Northern Irish actress with a diverse career spanning theatre, television, and film, delivers a particularly noteworthy performance as Sandra. Born in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh in May 1974, McGuckin trained at the Rose Bruford College in London and has since established herself as a versatile performer. Her previous roles include Letitia MacKenzie in the Starz series Outlander (2014-2015) and Denise, Marianne’s mother, in the BBC One miniseries Normal People (2020). According to her Wikipedia profile, she was married to Aidan McArdle from 2004 to 2019 and has three children.
As Sandra, McGuckin embodies a gleeful mania, a character who doesn’t necessarily *need* the house, but desires it simply because she’s been excluded from the decision to sell. This portrayal marks a significant shift in tone, injecting a welcome dose of absurdity into the otherwise grounded family drama. The performance is described as “maniacal” and “glossy,” highlighting the character’s wealth and her almost performative anger.
Themes of Family, Inheritance, and Care
McKevitt’s play delves into universal themes of family obligation, the complexities of inheritance, and the challenges of caring for aging relatives. Having previously explored similar themes in her work, including documentary theatre productions, McKevitt brings a nuanced perspective to these issues. Fair Deal, however, appears to grapple with a multiplicity of dramatic focuses, leading to a narrative that, while emotionally resonant, can feel somewhat drawn-out and repetitive. The play’s strength lies in its ability to capture the authentic ring of emotional resentment that often underlies family disputes over money and property.
The setting itself – the Thornton family home – plays a crucial role in the unfolding drama. Liam Doona’s faded decor and crammed furnishings are described as “triggering” elements, contributing to the psychological tension that permeates the play. The house, with its lingering memories and unspoken histories, becomes a character in its own right, embodying the weight of the past and the challenges of moving forward. The presence of the grandmother’s portrait, constantly watching over the proceedings, further emphasizes the enduring influence of family history.
A Shift Towards Absurdity and Physical Comedy
As Sandra’s anger escalates, fueled by unresolved issues with her deceased mother, the play takes an unexpected turn towards absurd physical comedy. Directed by Conall Morrison, this shift is characterized by a “fizzing energy” and inventive use of everyday objects – including a garlic crusher – as props. While a later plot twist is described as “over elaborate,” the overall effect is to propel the narrative into increasingly unpredictable territory. Garrett Lombard, as Daragh, delivers a brilliantly droll performance, seizing his moment in the spotlight and adding another layer of complexity to the family dynamic.
The play’s exploration of familial tensions is particularly relevant in contemporary society, where issues of inheritance and elder care are becoming increasingly common. As populations age and economic pressures mount, families are often forced to confront difficult choices about how to care for their loved ones and how to divide their assets. Fair Deal offers a compelling and often humorous examination of these challenges, prompting audiences to reflect on their own relationships and responsibilities.
Performance Details and Availability
Fair Deal is currently playing at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, Ireland, with performances scheduled through March 28, 2026. The Abbey Theatre, founded in 1904, is Ireland’s national theatre and a leading voice in Irish arts and culture. Tickets and further information are available on the Abbey Theatre’s website.
The production features a cast including Caroline Menton as Kiera and Jack Weise as Rio, alongside McGuckin and Lombard. The creative team includes set designer Liam Doona and director Conall Morrison, both of whom contribute to the play’s distinctive visual and theatrical style.
As of February 20, 2026, Fair Deal continues to garner attention for its sharp wit, compelling performances, and insightful exploration of family dynamics. The play offers a timely and relevant commentary on the challenges of navigating inheritance, aging parents, and the enduring power of family ties.
The next scheduled performances of Fair Deal are February 21st and 22nd at the Abbey Theatre. For those interested in experiencing this darkly comedic and thought-provoking play, tickets are available for purchase online. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reactions to the play in the comments below.
