Myra's Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We meet Myra as she wakes in a shelter before heading back onto the streets, searching for her “medicine”—the alcohol that numbs her pain. As she shares her story, audiences are taken back through her life: from first love at sixteen, through friendships, relationships, heartbreak, and devastating loss, before returning us to her present reality—isolated, vulnerable, and surviving day by day.

From the moment Myra’s Story begins, it is clear you are in for something special. This is not just a piece of theatre, it is an experience that quietly grips you and refuses to let go. Equal parts devastating and darkly funny, it takes you on a journey that feels as raw as it does real.

Brian Foster's direction is truly remarkable. There's a clear vision throughout, making every moment feel intentional and meticulously crafted. The pacing is just right, giving the emotional scenes the space they need to resonate. Foster skillfully allows silence to carry weight when necessary, providing the more poignant moments with time to settle. It feels confident, controlled, and deeply impactful.

The set design is beautifully minimalist, featuring just a bench. While this is a bold choice, it pays off beautifully. This simplified approach directs the audience's attention to where it truly belongs—on the storytelling. The bench effortlessly adapts to the narrative, demonstrating that a single piece of furniture can indeed embody an entire world.

The lighting complements this minimalism, using general washes and subtle transitions into darker tones. It remains unobtrusive, quietly enhancing the tone and mood without complicating the piece. It's a nice reminder that effective lighting doesn’t need to demand attention to make an impact.

The sound is also well-executed, blending seamlessly into the production so it feels almost invisible. There are moments where a few lines get slightly lost, but these are brief and don’t significantly detract from the overall effect. For the most part, it serves its purpose, supporting rather than distracting, and I particularly enjoyed the song selections during the pre-show and intermission.

Brian Foster’s writing truly takes flight in this piece. The book is filled with heart, humour, and moments that hit with surprising intensity. Just when you think you’ve grasped the direction of the story, it twists, uncovering new layers and profound truths. It’s refreshingly honest yet warm. The interplay between comedy and tragedy is skillfully executed, letting the audience erupt in laughter one moment and leave them breathless the next. It exemplifies the essence of human storytelling.

At the heart of this performance is Fíonna Hewitt-Twamley, whose portrayal is nothing short of remarkable. This is a genuine tour de force. She adeptly switches between sixteen different characters with remarkable clarity and distinctiveness. The transitions are fluid, the energy unyielding, and the emotional resonance is deeply impactful. One minute, she has the audience roaring with laughter; the next, there’s a hush in the room where you could hear a pin drop. What makes this performance resonate so strongly is its authenticity. There’s an absence of pretence; it feels honest, immediate, and profoundly personal. Hewitt-Twamley doesn’t merely narrate Myra’s story; she embodies it, ensuring its essence lingers well beyond the final bow. This is the type of performance that sticks with you, quietly resurfacing long after you’ve departed from the theatre, and, yes, there will be tears shed.

Myra’s Story is a masterclass in storytelling. Simple yet incredibly rich, it weaves sharp writing, confident direction, and an outstanding central performance into a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. It’s funny, heart-wrenching, and ultimately showcases humanity in a powerfully poignant way. A must-see that illustrates how sometimes the most straightforward productions can leave an indelible mark.

Myra's Story returns for a limited run on 19 April, with performances at 2pm and 6pm. You can book your tickets here:

https://trafalgartheatre.com/events/myras-story/