Strong – A powerful story of resilience and love

Written and directed by Maria Georgiou

Broadway Theatre, Catford – Part of SEEN Lewisham Festival

11 & 12 October 2025

It was deeply moving to witness Cypriot creativity shining on the London stage through Strong — a powerful one-woman show written and directed by Maria Georgiou, a British Cypriot writer and first-time theatre-maker. The production, which played to sold-out audiences on both nights at the Broadway Theatre in Catford, formed part of the SEEN Lewisham Festival, a platform celebrating underrepresented voices in the arts.

Strong explores the overlooked world of caregivers, following Elena, a British Greek Cypriot single mother of two whose life is turned upside down when her 15-year-old daughter is diagnosed with cancer. What unfolds is a journey through love, loss, hope, and faith — told with humour and heart — reminding us that there is strength to be found in vulnerability, connection, and the act of simply moving forward.

The production brought together an exceptional all-Cypriot creative team, a testament to the richness of the diaspora’s artistic community:

Cast & Production Team

• Elena – Louise Mary

• Charoulla / Assistant Director – Tutku Barbaros

• Doctor / Greek Voice / Voices – Maria Georgiou

• Voices / Football Fan / Production Assistant – James Inglis

Writer, Director, and Producer: Maria Georgiou

Co-Producers: Broadway Theatre, Nouveau Riche, and Lewisham Council

The Cultural Section of the Cyprus High Commission is proud to have supported this production, celebrating another talented British Cypriot voice making her mark on the UK stage. Supporting such stories — which reflect our shared heritage, identity, and human experience — is vital in ensuring that Cypriot narratives continue to resonate with British and international audiences.