Gritty play about a loser is the 'perfect fit' for Father Ted star

Ardal O'Hanlon is to make his drama debut on the London stage at the Southwark Playhouse in a gritty play by Olivier award-winning playwright Conor McPherson.

The Father Ted star and stand-up comedian said the Dublin-set tale about three men looking back at their lives and losses was the "perfect" fit to make the move to serious drama.

Directed by Tom Attenborough, Port Authority was written in 2001. It is composed of three interwoven monologues and is being performed for the first time since it premiered in the West End. O'Hanlon, 46, said: "I normally get offered farces. When Tom got in touch I wanted to get involved straightaway.

"Conor's writing is infused with humour, but the story is sad and moving

"When you do stand-up you go out feeling invincible, but you have to lose yourself when you go on stage in something like this."

Port Authority also stars John Rogan and Andrew Nolan. It opens on January 24.