Lies Where It Falls – Finborough Theatre, London

Writer: Ruairi Conaghan

The opening projection of a seaside on a faded wall of newspaper cuttings establishes the visual tone of a deeply personal quest for peace. The significance of September 16th 1974 quickly unfolds: we learn that 8-year-old Ruairi’s uncle, named Rory and a judge, was shot by the IRA while holding his daughter’s hand. Years later, in preparing to play IRA member Pat Magee, Ruairi must confront the very people responsible for shattering his family’s life. The play reminds us of the tragedies during The Troubles, with over 3,000 killings still unresolved. Ruairi’s story, heartbreakingly, is just one among many.

Ruairi Conaghan’s writing is tightly structured, plot-driven and seamlessly weaves multiple narrative threads. One standout moment sees him performing a Shakespearean monologue, interrupted by traumatic thoughts that bleed into his delivery. This interplay between memory and performance adds nuance, highlighting the complex emotional landscape of the piece. While the play risks veering into the territory of actors’ self-indulgent stories about acting, it avoids this pitfall by grounding these elements in authenticity. Conaghan deepens the theme of forgiveness by having to confront his feelings when putting himself in the shoes of others. Though the narrative slightly loses focus in the latter half, it remains a rich and layered exploration of trauma and reconciliation.

Conaghan delivers a restrained yet powerful performance, seamlessly multi-roling with subtle shifts and a straight-faced intensity that conveys a wide emotional spectrum. The audience sees each scene unfold through his eyes as he builds an evocative world on an otherwise bare stage. The staging is remarkably dynamic for a solo show, with every element serving the tight narrative. Moments of understated humour punctuate his solemn disposition, and his charisma ensures the storytelling remains engaging.

Lies Where It Falls is a poignant examination of how unresolved questions and trauma can haunt lives. It portrays the arduous journey toward forgiveness and peace with sensitivity and depth.

Runs until 21 December 2024