A Most Notorious Woman :: Praise

 

What CRITICS Are Saying
"With passion, energy and a commitment to historical accuracy, Molly Lyons, brings the true story of one of the world's truly remarkable women of history, Grace O'Malley (Granuaile), alive. You will be moved and astounded by her performance.  I am delighted that my book has helped to inspire such a realistic and creative interpretation."
-- Anne Chambers - Author, Granuaile: Ireland's Pirate Queen

"This is a one-woman show at its best...a bold and intimate look at the real life story of a truly remarkable woman...(Lyons’) acting is honest and gutsy, her affinity with O’Malley palpable."

-- Karyn Lewis - Reviewer, THE COLORADOAN

“There is pathos and politics in the telling of this story, as well as sheer visceral delight in the presence of an actress who fires on every theatrical cylinder imaginable.”
– Eric Prince -International Award-winning Playwright

"Lyons was always so in command and empathetic to the character of O’Malley, reveling in the role.  She took us through the various stages of O’Malley’s turbulent life, through many passionate moments, now poignant and now humourous and always fiercely independent and wild for the freedom she found in the western seas.” 
-- Tom Ryan - Reviewer, TIPPERARY STAR

“When I heard that the play was coming to Vancouver, I wondered in anyone could take on the role of Granuaile with an understanding of why she was who she was and to authentically portray the energy, courage and indomitable spirit that was Granuaile.  Well, these concerns were soon put to rest when Molly Lyons took the stage.  (She) has the very essence and spirit of Granuaile nailed."
-- Catholine Butler - Reviewer, Celtic Connection

What PRODUCERS Are Saying
"Some of the finest actor work I've ever seen. And what a remarkable story you've found to tell. And what a glorious way you have with words."
-- Ron Reed - Artistic Director, Pacific Theatre, Vancouver, BC

"The show is magnificent and your talent is astonishing."
-- Wendy Ishii - Artistic Director, Bas Bleu Theatre, Ft, Collins, CO

"Your acting skills are outstanding and the story is riveting. You demonstrate an incredible range of emotions and Seattle is so fortunate to have an actress of your caliber in our city."
-- Noreen McCormack - Irish Week Festival Producer, Seattle, WA

"Molly Lyons’ writing and performance have brought an intriguing and emotional woman to life before our envious eyes.  Brava."
-- Kristine Niven - Artistic New Directions Producer, NYC

What AUDIENCES Are Saying
For all who witnessed this unique and unforgettable occasion, Molly Lyons, acclaimed international actress, WAS Granuaile.
– Philip & Anna O’Malley-Dunlop, O’Malley clan chieftain - Irish Theatre Patrons

"Martin Stillion is a weaver, an absolute weaver of musical magic."
-- Mairaed Kelly - Music Teacher, Westport, Ireland

"Lyons filled the theatre with her character's passion, giving this woman a texture of strength that deeply touched her audience."
-- Morris Burns - Theatre Professor, Colorado State University

“Lyons’ Grania is poignant and plausible-strong, clear-thinking, passionate…. Her talent and skill are compelling.”
– Audrey Eyler - Irish Literature Professor, Pacific Lutheran University

"Perfect play, great script, historically very, very informative and alive." -- Kitty O'Malley, Westport, Ireland

"Excellent in every aspect."  -- Martin Curry, President - Westport Drama Society

"A remarkable performance and will be long remembered."  --Billy Lyons, Kiltimagh, Ireland

“What a tribute this is, what a ‘seeing’ this is, what a gift of intimacy.”
–Tim Dawes, Seattle Theatre Patron

“A wonderful, spell-binding actress. She made the past come alive.”
--Irish Festival Patron, Seattle

“ Thanks to your creative genius, I left feeling as though Grace O’Malley’s entire Spirit passed through my body. One cannot see your play passively. One journeys with it.”
-- Anastasia Brencick, Irish Festival Patron, Seattle

"Unbelievably energetic performance!  Excellent - thoroughly enjoyable." 
-- Evelyn Walsh, Kiltimagh, Ireland

“Incredible writing and performance. I was overwhelmed in the best possible of ways.”
-- Becca Henry, Fort Collins Theatre Patron

" A magnificent performance, an unforgettable drama."  -- Mary Guilfoyle, Westport, Ireland

“This is a WONDERFUL play. We loved the non-sequential approach.”
-- The Springbergs, Ft. Collins Theatre Patron

" Powerful performance, very stimulating.  Great energy for a nearly impossible role to capture - and you did."  -- Andrew Fahy, Nenagh, Co Tipperary, Ireland

“Now I am more proud than ever to be a direct descendent of this fascinating woman.”
– Margaret O’Malley, Seattle Theatre Patron

"Molly herself is both an incredible actor who portrays Grace O'Malley from girlhood to crone and a gifted playwright who can weave what is known about O'Malley's life into an effective drama without simplifying the content. Her play is one of the finest artistic creations I have ever experienced."
--Deb Robson, Ft. Collins Theatre Patron. 


If you are interested in a performance of the show, please contact us.