Grav explores the life and times of one of Wales most loved rugby players, Ray Gravell. He is known to millions for his legendary exploits on the rugby field, but he was so much more than a player. Ray Gravell was also an actor, a cultural icon, a father, a husband and as such had a life packed full of stories. The show is held in what has to be one of the smallest theatres in the Fringe, Ruby’s at Holden Street Theatres. The room is set as a locker room and only a maximum of twenty eight “fellow players” can fit into the room. You are never more than an arm’s length from the actor. To the tune of Danny Boy, Welsh actor Gareth J Bale makes his entrance, reminiscing to his departed mother about his life. Gareth stalks the small area he has to work with ease and with powerful voice takes us through his life of playing rugby, acting with Peter O’Toole, the death of his father and his leg amputation. In a state of AFL football, cricket and even soccer fans, it may seem pointless to present a show about rugby here, but as with the former mentioned sports, it’s all about the smell of leather. He rambles off names that meant nothing to me, but the stories will linger with me of a long time to come. The show is well written, is funny at times, but you will also shed a tear at other times. Grav’s dad once told him “It’s always best to do your best”. This may well be one of the best shows of the 2024 Fringe. A real gem. Don’t let the subject matter put you off, and above all, don’t miss it.