DRAMAC presents: The Iceman Cometh

 

The Iceman Cometh (first performed at the Martin Beck Theatre, New York City on the 9th of October, 1946) is considered to be one of the greatest plays in American drama. Set in a run down New York Saloon in 1912 the play focuses on a group of alcoholics and misfits who endlessly discuss, but never act upon their dreams. That is - until their old friend ‘Hickey’ turns up and, with an abundance of charisma and flare, convinces them all that what they need to do to find peace is to act upon these never eventuating ‘pipe dreams’. When they fail, as Hickey knows they will, their hopes and dreams are stripped away. There lies not peace but  deep depression.

 

 

Like all great plays The Iceman Cometh transcends its temporal placement. Its message about the illusions we use to make life bearable is just as relevant for audiences today as ever.

 

 

Surprisingly humorous, yet ultimately tragic, is an entertaining and evocative piece of theatre which will be enjoyed by all.