The Mariettas - Pothole Productions

Pothole Productions brings Niamh Gleeson’s comedy The Mariettas to the Garage Theatre on Saturday, 26 September 2026, a showband-era comedy played by five actresses taking on twenty parts between them. Set in 1960s Ireland, the play follows an all-female showband through the trials of the road, told with the mix of nostalgia and comic timing Gleeson’s writing is known for.

What to expect

Five performers carry the entire show, switching characters as the story moves through gigs, rivalries and the particular chaos of touring Ireland’s dancehall circuit in the showband years. The staging leans on quick changes and ensemble comic playing rather than a large cast or elaborate set, and the humour is built around the gap between the glamour showbands projected on stage and the reality of the women behind the music. Songs and set pieces from the showband era run through the piece alongside the comedy, giving it the feel of a night out as much as a straight play. It is a single performance in the Garage Theatre’s autumn season, following on from Pothole Productions’ other touring dates around the country.

Getting there

The Garage Theatre is on the Monaghan Education Campus, just off the Armagh Road on the edge of Monaghan town. Parking is available on site, and the box office is open weekdays from 10am to 2pm for phone and in-person bookings.

While you’re in Monaghan

A Saturday night show like this is an easy one to build a night out around, with the town centre a short drive or walk from the theatre. There is more to see in Monaghan and across Co. Monaghan.

Good to know

• Date: Saturday, 26 September 2026, 8pm
• Venue: Garage Theatre, Monaghan Education Campus, Armagh Road, Monaghan
• Price: €20
• Booking: via Garage Theatre box office or online through Ticketsolve
• Company: Pothole Productions, written by Niamh Gleeson