Modern Plays

Classic Irish myth of revenge and betrayal in poetic retelling

The story of Deirdre and the Sons of Usna ... a story of love, hatred and revenge

The story of the beautiful Deirdre and the Sons of Usna is one of the great tragedies of Irish myth. The birth of a girl heralded by omens of a vulture-shrouded sky begins the drama of a King''s obsession and a land divided. When Deirdre unites with her lover Naoise and goes into exile with the Sons of Usna, the stage is set for betrayal and bloodthirsty revenge that will plunge all Ulster into darkness.

Vincent Woods''s poetic retelling of the myth of Deirdre transforms this timeless story into a compelling contemporary drama.

Published to tie in with the world premiere at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin, in June 2005