BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary
Episode: Class Notes: Johnny Hopkins from “The Weir”
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Host: Lauren Clash Schneider
Guest: Johnny Hopkins
Production: The Weir at the Irish Repertory Theater
Introduction
In this engaging episode of BroadwayRadio’s Clash Notes, host Lauren Clash Schneider sits down with Johnny Hopkins, who portrays Brendan in the acclaimed production of “The Weir” at the Irish Repertory Theater. The conversation delves into Johnny’s role, the nuances of the production, his personal acting journey, and his experiences working with the talented cast and crew.
About “The Weir” and Character Insight
Lauren begins by setting the scene of the play:
Lauren Clash Schneider [00:45]:
“Today in a remote country pub in Ireland, newcomer Valerie finds herself drawn into an evening of ghost stories shared by the local bachelors…”
Johnny elaborates on his character, Brendan:
Johnny Hopkins [01:11]:
“He is the proprietor of the bar and he owns the land around the bar… He is a sort of a young man that's sort of attached to the bar. It sort of hinted at it that it may have been left to him through his family.”
Brendan serves as the anchor of the pub, facilitating the gathering where various characters share their tales. Johnny emphasizes the importance of his character’s listening role:
Johnny Hopkins [01:55]:
“Brendan's character… has an inner life, but he's avidly listening, which I think is a gift for any actor anyway.”
Production Highlights
Lauren shares a notable review from The New York Times, praising the production’s emotional depth:
Lauren Clash Schneider [03:04]:
“The New York Times has this to say about this production, that it tantalizes with a quiet grief for the loneliness it reveals…”
When asked what makes this production special, Johnny highlights the directorial finesse of Kieran O’Reilly and the camaraderie among the cast:
Johnny Hopkins [03:39]:
“Kieran has such a wonderful man and a generous director… He gives the material the right amount of reverence… the friendships and connections we have are very real, you know.”
He continues to praise the authenticity of the characters and the playwright Conor McPherson:
Johnny Hopkins [04:20]:
“Conor McPherson has such a wonderful kind of. His writing is so human… the emotions that are happening on stage are very real and organic.”
Johnny Hopkins’ Acting Background
Lauren inquires about Johnny’s previous experiences with The Weir and his future aspirations:
Lauren Clash Schneider [05:53]:
“Have you been in other productions of The Weir?”
Johnny responds that this is his debut in the play but expresses a desire to explore other roles in the future:
Johnny Hopkins [06:10]:
“I try to just as an actor, be where I am in my life… It’s very hard sometimes to see yourself playing those parts when you’re in the bones of Brendan.”
He reflects on the challenge of stepping into different roles after experiencing the depth of his current character.
Experience at the Irish Repertory Theater
Addressing his education and influences, Lauren mistakenly mentions the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, to which Johnny corrects:
Johnny Hopkins [07:21]:
“I did not attend there. I went to the Gaty School of Acting in Dublin…”
He shares the profound influence of his father, an actor, on his career path:
Johnny Hopkins [07:50]:
“My father is an actor… I just caught the bug very young… I’ve been watching him my whole life.”
Johnny reminisces about his early inspirations, including memorable moments like watching “Return of the Jedi”:
Johnny Hopkins [08:10]:
“The first movie that I ever saw was Return of the Jedi… I walked out thinking Han Solo was the coolest person I had ever seen on film.”
He acknowledges the familial ties to acting and the subtle influence they had on his passion for the craft.
Joining the Irish Repertory Theater
Lauren praises the Irish Repertory Theater's unique environment and asks why Johnny chose to spend his summer there:
Lauren Clash Schneider [09:54]:
“What made you want to spend the summer in New York and do The Weir?”
Johnny explains his long-standing relationship with the theater and his appreciation for its community:
Johnny Hopkins [09:54]:
“I've been in New York now a long time… I've known Ciaran a long time… The rep has always sort of been there… They have such a sense of community.”
He expresses gratitude for the inclusive and respectful atmosphere fostering creativity and strong performances.
Closing Thoughts
As the conversation winds down, Lauren commends Johnny for his contributions and the delightful nature of the interview:
Lauren Clash Schneider [11:50]:
“Well. And part of the furniture. So I thank you. This has been really a delightful visit.”
Johnny reciprocates the appreciation:
Johnny Hopkins [11:59]:
“Thank you so much.”
Lauren concludes the episode by reiterating Johnny’s role and the production details:
Lauren Clash Schneider [12:00]:
“I'm Lauren Klaus Schneider with Johnny Hopkins playing Brendan in The Weir at the Irish Repertory Theatre. Thank you.”
Key Takeaways
- Johnny Hopkins embodies Brendan, the attentive bartender in “The Weir”, bringing depth and authenticity to the role.
- The production, directed by Kieran O’Reilly, has garnered high praise for its emotional resonance and realistic portrayal of loneliness and human connection.
- Johnny’s rich acting background, influenced by his father and his education at the Gaty School of Acting, shapes his nuanced performance.
- The Irish Repertory Theater provides a supportive and collaborative environment, enhancing the overall quality of the production.
This episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the making of “The Weir”, the dedication of its cast, and the vibrant community of the Irish Repertory Theater.