3,000 km
Co.Kerry, Ireland to Newoundaland, Canada
1866
The year that months became seconds – and families began to hope
1
One exceptional performer, multiple lives on one stage
WHAT TO EXPECT
“The cable that changed the world — as one family waits for a single word.”
The Cable is a poignant exploration of loss, hope, and the universal longing for connection. Blending the compelling visual storytelling shaped by Mike Kelly with haunting original music by Dave McGilton, evocative lighting design by John Hurley, and the creative direction of Aidan Dooley, The Cable captures the intersection of technological achievement and human longing.
Audiences can expect a theatrical experience that stirs the soul and ignites the imagination — a compelling narrative of personal and historical transformation set against one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes – a story that deeply resonates.
News
Siamsa Tíre & The Cable
17 – 20 July 2025, Tralee Co Kerry: Siamsa Tíre is proud to present The Cable, a powerful new drama that interweaves personal story and historical moment. Co-produced by Siamsa Tíre and directed by the internationally acclaimed Aidan Dooley, creator of Tom Crean: Antarctic Explorer.
CEO of Siamsa Tíre, Angela Ryan Whyte, emphasised the importance of the show:
“We are proud to present a work so deeply rooted in Kerry’s heritage — yet so resonant with today’s world. The Cable speaks to the miracle and the paradox of connection: how a technological leap in the 1800s brought people closer, while today, despite constant digital contact, we often feel more emotionally distant. It’s a universal story that speaks to everyone told through a local lens — beautifully crafted, musically rich, and emotionally powerful.”
Historical Context
What is the Cable?
The Transatlantic Cable, which ran from Valentia Island, Co. Kerry, to Heart’s Content, Newfoundland, spanned over 3,000 kilometres beneath the Atlantic Ocean and revolutionised global communication by reducing message transmission across continents from weeks to mere minutes. As the world changed forever, so too did the lives of those at its edges — a truth brought vividly to life in this stirring production.
The Shrinking World
Set against the backdrop of the monumental laying of the Transatlantic Cable on Valentia Island in 1866 — known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” — The Cable explores how a family’s emotional struggles mirror a world on the brink of a communications revolution.
Words from the Director
“The Transatlantic Cable is a symbol of global connection, and this play brings that down to a deeply personal level — showing how progress and pain often walk hand in hand.”
Aidan Dooley, Director.
Media
Explore THE CABLE Play’s Images, Videos, Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes
Quotes & Testimonials
Dont’t take our word for it – here’s what the audience say:
“Thank you for a fantastic performance. Myself and my daughter went and loved every minute. I loved the subtle switch between characters. It was very emotional, sad, beautiful, and so funny too. ”
Alice Dennehy
Audience Member
“I’m so proud to have been at your premiere tonight of what is going to be an amazing journey of success for your brilliant acting and writing, Mike.”
Pippa Kearon
Audience Member
“Mike, it was mesmerising. You were absolutely fantastic. The writing was superb. Outstanding acting. Truly a masterpiece. It’ll go far.”
Joe McGill
Kerry Radio
“This extraordinary work has to be seen again and again, all over Ireland and beyond these shores.”
Martina Forde
Audience Member
Book Tickets Now for July at Siamsa Tíre!
Blog Posts Coming Soon
Mike Kelly and the team are incredibly passionate about sharing the story of the cable, behind-the-scenes and the incredible journey of sharing it with the world. Here you will find features and details for you to enjoy and share our passion for The Cable and all it involves.
