This is a true story, as told by former dominatrix lesbian prostitute Josie Pickering to writer, director and Queer as Folk actor Adam Zane.

According to Zane, Josie has ‘pride, honesty and dignity’. But finding out she was gay in an era when it wasn’t openly discussed (although she did tell her husband about her desires) doesn’t automatically make her a heroine. Especially when you read in the notes that despite all the prostitute business – relatively innocent, as it involved fully clothed domination – she was a professional shoplifter. This isn’t gone into during the play, because it wouldn’t really fit. But it shows how even verbatim theatre can’t tell the whole truth.

Does this matter? A monologue automatically invites you to judge the character: it has the feel of a confession to the audience. But despite Zane’s glowing endorsement of Josie, he doesn’t shy away from the difficult aspects of her life. Incidents such as running over an unfaithful ex-girlfriend are recounted in a genuinely funny style, but the underlying horror isn’t glossed over.

Erin Shanagher holds the audience’s attention from beginning to end. She is convincing, moving, and entertaining. Her portrayal is genuine, and means that Josie ultimately can’t be judged: her openness about her life means you can share in her experiences and give a grudging admiration to her bravery in being fully herself, even as you question her decisions.

The details of this story stay with you. When Josie told her husband she was moving out, she says he had tears in his eyes but said he’d give her some furniture. This story has comic pathos. Just like real life.

REALEdinburgh Rating: *****