Death of a Salesman Review – A Powerful Production at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre
- Richard Brown
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 19
Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman has arrived at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre. In this critique from Richard's Theatre Reviews, we explore how this production brings new depth to the tragic tale of Willy Loman, with standout performances and a compelling stage design. Whether you're a longtime fan of the play or experiencing it for the first time, this review covers everything you need to know before booking your tickets.
Death of a Salesman Review – A Powerful Revival at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre.
When watching a play or musical, I always ask one question: "why are we staging this now?" In the ever changing modern world, many classic plays fall at this hurdle, with old fashioned messaging. And I won't lie, before viewing this production of Death of a Salesman, it made me worry if it would face the same fate. The play, written in 1949 by the legendary playwright Arthur Miller, could feel outdated, old fashioned and unrelatable. However, it was clear from last nights Press Night in Dublin, that Trafalgar Theatre and Raw Material's production is as poignant and important as ever.
The plot tells the story of Willy Loman, a travelling salesman who is deeply unhappy with his life and family. Simple, yes. But powerful? Absolutely. As a woman remarked to me as I moved back into my seat at intermission; "It's great to see a play with a start, middle and end, isn't it?" and I couldn't agree more.
What Makes This Production so Good?
With a strong book from Miller, Andy Arnold directed a very powerful and well paced production. The scenic design (by Neil Haynes) of the almost broken or exposed panels of wood on the house created the feeling that everything that was said in that house could be heard from those eagerly watching and listening from side stage, The use of the Elm Trees, painted on a skrim, which could be ulimanted by Rory Beaton's clever lighting design, was well used and was a smart device. The costume design was well executed by Victoria Brown.
Taking on a play like this requires a very strong Willy Loman, which was thankfully found in David Hayman's protrayal. It was no surprise with his experience, Hayman plays the unravelling of Willy carefully, allowing glimpses of sanity and awareness, making for a very interesting and powerful performance.
His best moments featured his family, in particular Daniel Cahill who is a standout as Biff. The emotional rollarcoaster of a dysfunctonal father and son relationship is complimented by Cahill's clear motives and decisions throughout. The peaks and valleys were superb, without over playing which could occur easily. Cahill is supported by his brother Happy (played by Michael Wallace) who provides some wonderful comedic moments, which allowed us to take a breath in a very heavy play.
Beth Marshall's performance as Linda completed the family dynamic. As the headstrong mother and pillar of the Loman family, Marshall performs opposite Hayman beautifully. Her final moments on stage were a standout.
The company was rounded off with some wonderful performances of Gavin Jo Wright (Bernard), Benny Young (Charley), Simon Donaldson (Howard), Charlene Boyd (The Woman in Boston), Stewart Ennis (Ben), Fay Guiffo (Miss Forsythe), Bailey Newsome (Stanley) and Gillian Massey (Jenny/Letta) as the always watching ensemble, like the neighbours who hear everything. I do wish that they were utilised a little bit more with some movement perhaps.
Why is this play still important?
On the drive home, I found myself reflecting on why Death of a Salesman still feels so essential to perform today. Ultimately, it comes down to Arthur Miller’s masterful writing. His exploration of fractured family dynamics and the disillusionment with the American Dream resonates as deeply now as it did when the play was first written. And with a performance delivered by this tour de force ensemble, it’s clear that Death of a Salesman is far more than just an evening’s entertainment; it’s a powerful, thought-provoking reflection of the world we live in today.
Booking and Ticket Information for Death of a Salesman.
Death of a Salesman continues its run at the Gaeity Theatre until Saturday the 19th of April. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster or from the Gaeity Theatre Website. The show will conclude its run in High Wycombe and Manchester.
Gaiety Theatre
South King Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Tue 15 April – Sat 19 April 2025
7:30pm (and 2.30pm matinee on Thu and Sat only | From 21.50 euros
Box office: www.ticketmaster.ie |.gaietytheatredublin.ie
Venue: The Gaeity Theatre, Dublin.
Review Date: 15th of April, 2025
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Disclaimer: Richard was invited to review this show as part of the Press Night on the 15th of April. All views are his own and we're not influenced by the invite.
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