I first saw David William Bryan’s ‘In Loyal Company’ in 2018, and this latest outing for the gripping World War 2 drama is still just as powerful as ever. Based on the experiences of the writer/actor’s Great Uncle, the play is a one-man triumph of theatre making.

The narrative follows Arthur (Joe) Robinson from his home life, through the loss of his best friend and then into the army, tracing his service all across the globe and eventually back home again. In an hour Bryan tells the story of half a decade of conflict, and the impact it has not just on Arthur, but on his colleagues and loved ones, too. The storytelling is exquisitely written and performed, and the most remarkable thing is that this story is an entirely true one.

Bryan plays all the characters, moving seamlessly between them. In particular his transformation into George, one of his fellow soldiers, is moving and clearly defined. The play is extraordinarily well-crafted, deeply moving, beautifully performed and a must-see piece of Fringe theatre.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐