‘Sure What Do You Expect?’

by Hank Regan

“A theatrical stage scene set in a rustic Irish cottage with an elderly couple arguing with a young American backpacker, capturing rural Irish humour, mistaken identity, and traditional countryside life.”

Cast: One female, four males.

Synopsis: May and Owen Ryan are a typical middle-aged couple living in a rural Irish community. Their children—far better educated than they ever were—expect far more out of life than Owen and May ever dreamed of.

Owen, who is slightly hard of hearing, has recently been hit by a car. Although he has mostly recovered, his compensation claim is still under investigation, meaning he certainly can’t be seen doing any work. Unfortunately, he also has a full field of potatoes waiting to be harvested.

When a young American traveller arrives in search of his Irish relatives, Owen and May cleverly mislead him into believing he has found his long-lost family. Before long, Owen has him working away in the potato field.

The mix-up—on both sides—sparks a series of hilarious misunderstandings set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing “new” Ireland.

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT is a lively, laugh-filled romp that is sure to entertain, while also nudging the audience to reflect on how we all played a part in creating the challenges Ireland faces today.