Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour

Rib-achingly funny, heart-breakingly poignant, and dazzling in its energy and vitality, Our Ladies is the undeniable hit of this year’s Arts Festival. It isn’t necessary to know Alan Warner’s book (although I certainly want to read it now) to recognise the brilliance of Lee Hall’s adaptation and Vicky Featherstone’s direction. This is superb theatre; joyful, exhilarating, provocative and thought- provoking. Ultimately though, despite it being gut-wrenchingly tragic in places, it is a testament to youth with all its flaws, and the desire to devour life like a fast-food meal, oblivious to the pain it might cause you. It’s also a piece of extreme contrasts, a paradoxical character piece with real edge.

The idea of six Catholic choir girls let loose in the city doesn’t sound particularly innovative, but everything about the production is fresh and bursting with enthusiasm. More than half the show is music, and again the mix is paradoxical but perfect. Mendelssohn and Bartok (with angelic six part harmonies) give space to ELO and Bob Marley, and the girls themselves meld thrash rock performances with ethereal choral presentations.

Casting is nothing less than superb. Dawn Sievewright is perfect as the charismatic leader Fionnula, commanding the stage and her fellow performers. Karen Fishwick is totally credible as ‘privileged good girl’ Kay, and has a breathtaking voice. Frances Mayli McCann is super impressive as Kylah; Kirsty Mclaren is a wonderfully evocative Manda; and Caroline Deyga (Chell) and Joanne McGuinness (Orla) have moments when they are dazzling. All of the girls also play male characters and are hilarious.

Most impressive of all is the fact that you forget you are watching skilled actors and believe implicitly in the truth of the characters. They are coarse and fearless, yet the vulnerability is always there just under the skin.

Tightly rehearsed and yet giving the impression that everything is spontaneous, the cast is accompanied by three kick-ass musicians in Laura Bangay (keyboards), Becky Brass (percussion) and Emily Linden (Guitar). Not surprisingly there is a long list of creative credits. Kudos to all who contributed to the overall excellence.

If you only see ONE show in this year’s festival, make it this one. It is sensational.

Coral Drouyn