THATRE REVIEW: Heroine

A one woman play detailing a harrowing story of pain & loss for a woman in the American army. Based on true events and a real American soldier, Heroine is worth the generated buzz that surrounds it and then some. Its simplistic style gives way to a raw form of storytelling that does not give up. So much so, that an injured ankle did not stop actor Mary Jane Wells from performing the entire show in a wheelchair. Part of Made in Scotland 2018, this is one not to miss!

Danna Davis (Wells) takes the audience on her journey from leaving home where her family struggle to understand her, to join the army. From the beginning however, she is ridiculed and mocked for being herself and even a promotion cannot deter the abuse from her own men. After several traumatising events including rape & the loss of a loved one, Davis finds herself out of the army and suffering from PTSD. The entire show is dedicated to detailing her struggles & her strength in fighting back.

Heroine is an example of the talent present at the Fringe Festival and why it is so loved for bringing amazing artists and their work to the many. A script that skilfully condenses a life story into just over an hour, with the direction of Susan Worsfold which ensures the words are the star of the show. A relentlessly dark tale peppered with darker comedy which at certain times feels oddly placed. However, nothing can take away from the sincere and powerful performance given by Wells. She captivates from beginning to end with no sign of fatigue as she delivers an unforgettable performance, even with her ankle out of action. An unfortunate occurrence, but a glimpse at the dedication of artists to their art and the message it brings. A triumph in storytelling and acting that shines a light on issues experienced by real people across the worlds militaries. Simply put, this is theatre done so right.