Five reasons to see … Happy Days

Samuel Beckett’s funniest play Happy Days runs at the Crucible Studio in Sheffield from May 20 to June 4.
This bold new production celebrates the 50th anniversary of the play and stars Pauline McLynn, best known for her role as Mrs Doyle in Father Ted, in the role of Winnie.

Pauline gives us five reasons to see Happy Days :

1. Misery is infectiously funny
‘Beckett writes about how ridiculous it is to be alive. On top of that, he places his characters in impossibly bleak situations and lets them get on with their day. The misery is infectiously funny. This is one his great plays, with bittersweet laughter and tears all the way, and it will leave you moved long after you have seen it.’

2. It’s good value for money
‘The Crucible is one of the most vibrant theatres in the UK. It is also remarkably good value with ticket prices from 10 to 18 pounds. In Happy Days the actor Peter Gowen is at least half naked, most of the time – surely worth the admission price alone!’

3. You’ll have plenty to talk about afterwards
‘Happy Days is a real talking point. Not only is it a night at the theatre, and a live show is always so much to savour and enjoy, it will also cast up many subjects for later discussion, like how can we use our slender human skills to survive? What little rituals help us through? What is the enduring nature of love and does it change to suit our circumstances?’

4. You’ll be able to comment on Beckett’s genius
Having seen this show you will be well placed to take part in any argument about whether Beckett is a modern genius. In fact, you might just be plain argumentative.

5. And finally (epic chips)
 Crucible Corner, just across from the theatre, serves many fine beverages and food, including the most epic chips available in the north of England – FACT.

For tickets please contact box office 0114 249 6000 or visit www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk