My Name is Saoirse – Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh

Writer: Eva O’Connor

Director: Hildegard Ryan

Reviewer: Danielle Shields

Saoirse is quite plain compared to other protagonists we meet during one-woman shows at the Fringe. Her whole demeanor and personalisation screams average, although it doesn’t take long for us to fall in love with this shy soul. In the present she is a gloomy sad mess and it is only when she shares stories from her childhood that her eyes are electrified. Thankfully much ofMy Name is Saoirseis told through her fond memories of the past.

What is unique aboutMy Name is Saoirsein relation to other one-woman shows is that she holds our attention for the duration of the show. Eva O’Connor performs Saoirse as if she is the woman herself, it is only when she transforms into Saoirse’s wild red-haired rôle model and best friend Siobhan that we remember that she is an actress.

It is rural Ireland 1987 and Saoirse is patching a quilt one night in the attic of her father’s home. This setting feels more suited for an intimate space rather than this modern venue at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. A common teenage occurrence causes Saoirse to wish to return to her childhood innocence where she doesn’t have to worry about the challenges and loneliness she faces as an adult. Playing with her brother on the check marked kitchen floor or going to Siobhan’s house and dressing up in her mother’s clothes are some of her fondest memories. It is always when she has companionship that she can be carefree.

This poignant play is a tale of identity and teenage angst which has not been made to be all in your face,instead it relies onwitty speech and quirky characterisation. It is an accurate representation of true life which does lack in energetic spirit, however to include this would only shatter O’Connor realistic characterisation.

Runs until 23^rdAug