Big Betty McDowd was the legendary land lady of the Viscount in the Dingle. The oldest of the old school, she'd serve you a pint, dole out advice and bounce you out on your arse at the end of the night. She's about to set off down Park Road one last time in a horse-drawn hearse with a piper and a crowd to see her off.
Before she can go, her daughters have to say their own goodbyes. Paula, her eldest, has got memories of Betty at her finest, and some at her worst. Sharon, her blue-eyed baby girl, wants everything to be perfect for her final foray into the Holy Land.
Along with Paula's daughter Paris and old friends and hairdressers Dolly and Mikey, they've come together to talk about the past and the waves it creates in the present. A personality as big as Betty's has an impact in death as well as in life.
Jonathan Larkin has conjured up a brand-new comedy full of family stories, big personalities and the beating heart of the Dingle. There are up-dos, down-dos and cutting remarks that will make you want to curl up and dye!
Big Betty's laid out in the glammed-up living room as family secrets are laid out in the kitchen. So pull up a chair and join in.
Stalls tickets are available with a meal (served at your table before the show) for an extra £16 for one course and £23 for two courses at evening shows, or an extra £10 for one course and £16 for two courses at matinees.
If you are bringing a large group, every tenth ticket is free. This ticket will be automatically added to your basket on purchase. Meals and building levy must still be paid on your free ticket.
A BSL performance is on Tuesday 9 March.
An Audio Described performance is on Wednesday 10 March.
Captioning will be available for performances for the final week of the show.
Wheelchair spaces are available to book online if you are a Nimbus card holder. You can find more information on how to register on our Accessibility page.
The Relaxed Performance is on Wednesday 3 March. Relaxed performances are perfect for anyone who might prefer a more laid-back atmosphere - including people with autism, dementia, learning disabilities, mental health conditions, or anyone who might make involuntary noises. There's no pressure here, no judgement - just a friendly space where you can enjoy the show your way.
If you are dining with us please arrive between 11.45am and 12.30pm for afternoon shows, and 5.45pm and 6.30pm for evening shows.
Circle and Balcony will open at 12.45pm for afternoon shows, and 6.45pm for evening shows.
There are bars in the Stalls, Circle and Balcony for pre-show and interval drinks.
Please note the bar will close 15 minutes before the advertised start time.
Fri 6th Nov 2026 to Sat 16th Jan 2027
Fri 2nd Apr to Sat 24th Apr 2027
25th Oct 2026
