"Sex in the City Hall" A relatable slice of Belfast life ON stagE

Written by local talents Diona Doherty and Sean Hegarty, Sex in the City Hall is a delightful comedy that brings laughter, warmth and a relatable slice of Belfast life to the stage.

Currently showing at The Grand Opera House, this original play tells the story of four ordinary women working at Belfast City Hall, who face an unexpected dilemma when they discover that one of them is going to be made redundant.

The strength of the play lies in its rich characters and witty dialogue. Each of the four women, with their unique personalities and quirks, feels like someone you’ve met before—whether it's the overly ambitious office go-getter or the colleague who’s always cracking jokes. Doherty and Hegarty have created characters that are not only funny but also full of heart, giving the play a warm, human core amid the chaos of potential job loss. The looming threat of redundancy might be a serious topic, but in the hands of these writers, it's handled with humor, honesty, and plenty of Belfast banter.

The performances are energetic and compelling, with the chemistry between the cast members making it easy to believe these women have worked together for years. Their friendships, tensions, and fears are all laid bare in scenes that swing effortlessly between laugh-out-loud moments and genuine emotional depth. The ensemble cast does a fantastic job of balancing these tonal shifts, keeping the audience hooked from start to finish.

Set against the backdrop of Belfast City Hall, the play cleverly uses its setting to amplify the stakes. The City Hall offices serve as more than just a workplace—they represent security, friendship, and pride in the city. As the women grapple with the possibility of losing their jobs, they also face the reality of what it means to lose a piece of their identity. Yet, the humor never wavers, with sharp jokes and hilarious situations peppered throughout.

Visually, the production is simple but effective, allowing the strength of the writing and performances to take center stage. The Grand Opera House itself provides the perfect venue, with its grandeur contrasting the everyday lives of the characters in a way that feels both ironic and charming.

"Sex in the City Hall" is a brilliant, Belfast-flavored comedy that resonates with anyone who has ever worried about job security or leaned on friends to get through tough times. It’s a feel-good, laugh-out-loud experience that showcases the exceptional comedic talents of Diona Doherty and Sean Hegarty. Whether you’re there for the humor or the heartfelt moments, this play is a must-see while it’s on at The Grand Opera House.

The show runs until 5th October 2024 - get tickets by clicking here