It's a cardinal sin but I was sceptical. Do we need another grim tale of The Troubles in my homeland? Could writer and performer Geraldine Hughes's autobiographical one-woman show possibly add anything new to a well-worn subject?
Well, no, but it doesn't necessarily seek to, despite the title. As the tale of a wee girl growing up, it's funny, moving, true and quite superb.
As the Hughes family grows in number, moving into Belfast's notorious Divis flats, and on to a house by the 'peace line' - the wall that separates Protestant and Catholic neighbours - young Geraldine tries to make sense of it all and dreams of escape.
So far, so-so, but it's the portrayal of her family, in particular the relationship with her father and his relations with friends and neighbours, that, in the later scenes, is touching beyond belief.
To watch Hughes play all 24 characters, from her younger self to her father after a night out, to a local boy with an itchy arse, to their neighbours, is like watching a master at work.
Indeed, she's such a bright-eyed, engaging performer that the play's video projection is redundant. But overall, as her neighbour Eddie might say: 'F***in' brilliant, so it is.'
Until Jul 3, Soho Theatre And Writers' Centre, 21 Dean Street W1, Mon to Sat 7.30pm, Sat mats 4pm, £14 to £15, £10 to £12.50 concs, Mon and mats £5. Tel: 020 7478 0100. www.sohotheatre.com Tube: Tottenham Court Road/ Piccadilly Circus
Belfast Blues
