Women at war

Bold Girls
By Rona Munro
Directed by Ken Boucher
Belvoir Street Theatre until April 14
Reviewed by Trish Corcoran

This play gives the audience an insight into the way families are affected in countries at war. In particular, it explores the issues that women have to confront — poverty, violence and loneliness.

The story is based on four women living in Belfast. All of them have had husbands, fathers or brothers killed or imprisoned in the long war against the British occupiers. Their strength is displayed through telling stories about incidents in which they stood up to the "Brits" and the RUC. They are able to laugh and joke about these things.

The play raises many questions about the way women are stereotyped in Irish society: there are bold girls who wear black slinky dresses and no bra when they go out; and there are good girls who are faithful to their husbands. Bold means bad. Women aren't supposed to be bold; they should know their place.

Bold Girls is an inspiring depiction of people's ability to survive in situations of enormous turmoil and stress.

From GLW issue 225