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The Slab Boys is partly autobiography and reflects John Byrne's upbringing, family and early working life. The play reflects issues of youth rebellion, social class and Americanisation from the 1950s.

The Slab Boys face the grind of working in the slab room whilst dreaming of rebellion and escape. The conflict between the characters drives the story to a dramatic and comical climax.

Phil is a complex character whose story is told through Spanky’s comedy, Hector’s vulnerability, Lucille’s beauty, Sadie’s suffering, Curry’s dominance, Alan’s privilege and Jack’s conformity.

The interplay of characters from different generations, social backgrounds and working roles is used to explore themes including dreams and reality, ambition, rebellion and mental illness.

The setting gives a gritty insight into working life. Containing the drama in one room reflects the constraints the Slab Boys live within and react against.

Byrne’s humour breathes life into the often tragic stories of the characters. The language is rich in parody, dialect and word play. Stage directions add depth to the comedy and characterisation.