‘Dubs’ is a contemporary Irish play that took to the stage at The Moat Theatre in Naas recently, one that crackles with relevance, urgency and raw emotion. Set inside 15 Usher's Island Dublin, the iconic James Joyce house, this play doesn’t shy away from the big stuff. Homelessness, Ireland’s housing crisis, politics, protest, activism, love, utopian dreams, corruption and youth culture - it’s all there, rolled into one bold, electrifying production.
This play acts as a mirror held up to our messy, beautiful and broken society. You’ve got drama, comedy, heartbreak and hope. There’s poetry, strong dialogue and powerful music. There’s musicians, influencers, leaders, bleeders, gangsters, journalists, homeless souls, a ghost, charlatans, mavericks, artists and activists, all thrown together in this chaotic assembly.
Performed by the immensely talented Teen Theatrics group from Naas, Dubs lit up the Moat Theatre for two powerful nights. If you were lucky enough to be there, you’ll know what I mean. The group donated proceeds from the ticket sales to Jigginstown Manor, a local charity run by Tiglin that provides transitional supported housing for young people who are at risk of homelessness.
Now, please do allow me my proud dad moment. My son Cayden plays Ruaidhrí, an angry, passionate young man with a bold idea to turn the Joyce house into a museum. But as the story unfolds, that vision is tested and Ruaidhrí is forced to confront his own beliefs. It’s a role with depth and Cayden brought it to life with fire and soul.
But it’s not just the acting. Cayden also wrote an original song for the play, “Wolf at Your Door”. It’s a haunting, powerful protest ballad calling for change, echoing the voices of those crushed by the housing crisis - the ones too often forgotten, the homeless.
In the final act, Cayden/Ruaidhrí picks up a guitar and alongside Lily who plays Lizzie, a homeless person, they perform this song live. It’s a moment that hits hard, full of tenderness, urgency and raw truth. And let me tell you, sitting in that audience, heart in my throat, watching my 16-year-old son deliver something so brave and honest... I was absolutely floored. As a fellow musician, I know what it takes to put yourself out there like that. It takes balls and he did it with guts, grace and purpose. Fair play to you, Cayden. You’ve got this gift, and now you’ve found a way to use it. I’m proud beyond words. I love you. You’re on your way.
A huge shoutout as well to Mary Power Cooney, who directed Dubs and who pours her heart into Teen Theatrics. What she’s built isn’t just a drama group - it’s a sanctuary. A place where young people can be themselves, spread their wings, speak their truth and find their tribe. It's theatre, it's therapy, it’s a community - a palace of dreams.
Long may it run.
And lastly, here’s a little phone video (captured by a very proud mam!) of Cayden and Lily performing “Wolf at Your Door.” Trust me, it’s worth a watch.
