The Cable presented by Siamsa Tíre, is a powerful new one-man drama written and performed by Mike Kelly (The Martian, The Last Kingdom), directed by Aidan Dooley (Tom Crean: Antarctic Explorer).
Set against the monumental laying of the Transatlantic Cable on Valentia Island in 1866, The Cable blends searing humour, haunting music, and unforgettable storytelling to explore themes of emigration, hope, and connection. Reviewers have called it “a new Irish masterpiece fit for a modern audience… visually breathtaking… definitely a hit that deserves its place in the Irish theatre canon.”
The historic cable, stretching over 3,000 kilometres from Valentia Island to Heart’s Content, Newfoundland, revolutionised communication, shrinking transatlantic messaging from weeks to minutes. As the world changed, so too did the lives of ordinary people — a truth vividly brought to life in The Cable.
“This production is about more than a piece of history,” says writer-performer Mike Kelly. “It’s about the way we reach for each other across distances, how technology transforms us, and the enduring ties of family and love.”
Director Aidan Dooley added: “The Transatlantic Cable is a symbol of global connection, and this play brings that down to a deeply personal level — showing how progress and pain often walk hand in hand.”
The Cable promises to stir the soul and spark reflection, an extraordinary experience featuring live music, masterful storytelling, and a powerful message that resonates.
Theatre Club Members: 20% off 2 tickets, 10% reward points. Not a member? Find out more here.
