Writer: Brian Foster
Director: Brian Foster
The tale of a middle-aged, alcoholic, homeless Irish woman, Brian Foster’s Myra’s Story, seen by over 150,000 theatre-goers around the world, returns to Glasgow after two previous sold-out runs in the city and a hugely successful stint at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Myra spends her days drifting from one shelter or hostel or park bench to another, filling her days begging for a few coins on Dublin’s Ha’penny Bridge to buy the alcohol she needs to numb the painful memories of her past. Myra directly addresses the audience as she recounts the events in her life that have brought her to this point.
It is funny and heart-wrenching in equal measure, but most of all it is a thought-provoking piece that shines a light on homelessness and addiction. Fíonna Hewitt-Twamley embodies not only Moira but the entire cast of colourful characters in Myra’s life past and present, switching effortlessly between them.
Some elements play better than others, it leans too hard on effing and blinding and some cruel and callous moments have been included clearly for effect. In particular, the prolonged scene at the end as Myra slips into an alcoholic stupor lessens the impact as it drags on. That said, the comic scenes are largely well written with the scene between Norris the Gnome and the Russian vodka bottle, hysterical.
Most impactful is the message that actress Hewitt-Twamley leaves us with at curtain call. She explains that she helps local charities as they travel with the play and encourages us to face, eye to eye, the human beings who meet on the street in this position. She reminds us that no addict or homeless person chooses to be in this position, that trauma has led them here and there but for the grace of God, go you or I.
Myra’s Story is a emotive tale about difficult subject matter and a welcome alternative to more sugary sweet offerings currently touring the country.
Runs until 27 April 2025 | Image: Contributed
The Reviews Hub Score
Thought-provoking
