'The Seafarer' Opens Tonight

The National Theatre of Great Britain's critically acclaimed production of Conor McPherson's The Seafarerofficially opens Thursday, December 6 at the Booth Theatre (222 West 45th Street).

The production, directed by McPherson, stars Conleth Hill, Ciarán Hinds, Sean Mahon, David Morse, and Jim Norton.

From McPherson, the author of the Olivier Award-winning The Weir and the Tony-nominated Shining City, comes "a chilling new play about the sea, Ireland, and the power of myth. It's Christmas Eve and Sharky (Morse) has returned to Dublin to look after his irascible, aging brother (Norton) who's recently gone blind. Old drinking buddies Ivan (Hill) and Nicky (Mahon) are holed up at the house too, hoping to play some cards. But with the arrival of a stranger (Hinds) from the distant past, the stakes are raised ever higher. In fact, Sharky may be playing for his very soul," explain press notes.

Two-time Olivier Award winner Conleth Hill (Stones in His Pockets, The Producers) will be reprising his role as 'Ivan Curry,' which he originated at The National Theatre in London. Ciarán Hinds is best known to audiences as 'Gaius Julius Caesar' in HBO's epic drama "Rome," and Closer in the West End and on Broadway. Sean Mahon will be making his Broadway debut as 'Nicky Giblin.' Drama Desk Award winner David Morse (How I Learned to Drive) is returning to New York theatre after receiving an Emmy nomination for his guest starring role in "House, M.D." Jim Norton will be reprising his role as 'Richard Harkin' for which he received the 2007 Olivier Award.

The Seafarer received its world premiere in 2006 at the National's Cottesloe Theatre, opening to critical acclaim. The Seafarer received two Olivier Award nominations including Best New Play for McPherson. Jim Norton received the Olivier for Best Performance in a Supporting Role.

The creative team for The Seafarer includes: Rae Smith (set and costume design), Neil Austin (lighting design), and Mathew Smethurst-Evans (sound design).

The Seafarer ticket info: Ticket range from $98.50 - $76.50. Telecharge 212-239-6200 or www.telecharge.com.

The Seafarer plays Tuesday – Saturday at 8 PM. Matinees on Wednesday and Saturday at 2 PM and Sunday at 3 PM.  Visit www.SeafarerThePlay.com