In the intimate space of Belfast's Lyric Theatre, something extraordinary is unfolding. Dénouement, the powerful new one-woman show starring the formidable Stella McCusker, takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the labyrinth of memory and identity.
A Tour de Force Performance
At 82, Stella McCusker proves that age is no barrier to delivering one of the most compelling performances of the year. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with dementia is both heartbreaking and profoundly human. McCusker commands the stage with such raw intensity that audiences find themselves holding their breath, completely captivated by her every word and gesture.
More Than Just a Play About Dementia
While dementia provides the framework, Dénouement transcends its subject matter to explore universal questions about the stories we tell ourselves and others. The production asks: What remains of us when our memories fade? How do we reconstruct identity from the fragments that remain?
The staging is deliberately sparse, allowing McCusker's performance to take centre stage. Minimal props and subtle lighting changes create an atmosphere that feels both clinical and deeply personal, mirroring the internal landscape of a mind in flux.
A Belfast Triumph
This production represents everything that makes Northern Ireland's theatre scene so vital. The Lyric Theatre has once again demonstrated its commitment to challenging, thought-provoking work that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Audiences leaving the theatre aren't just discussing the quality of the performance—they're engaging in conversations about their own memories, their families, and the nature of consciousness itself.
Why You Should See It
- Stella McCusker's performance is being hailed as career-defining
- The writing is both poetic and brutally honest
- It transforms a difficult subject into accessible, moving theatre
- Perfect for anyone interested in psychological drama
Dénouement runs at the Lyric Theatre until November 15th, and based on audience reactions and critical response, tickets are likely to become increasingly scarce. This is precisely the kind of production that reminds us why live theatre remains such a vital art form.
