Diana Nyad to Talk about Cuba–to–Florida Keys Swim During Show in Key West

Later this month audiences will gather in Key West to hear legendary endurance swimmer Diana Nyad present a one-woman show describing her recent history making 111-mile swim from Cuba to Key West.

Titled “Onward! The Diana Nyad Story,” the show will take place Feb. 19-22 at The Studios of Key West’s historic Armory building, 600 White St. The venue is very close to the spot where she achieved her long-time dream of completing the epic swim.

It was on Labor Day 2013, when the then 64-year old Nyad, exhausted from a 53 hour swim, walked ashore on Key West’s Smathers Beach.



“Never, ever give up,” said the then 64-year-old Nyad, her face swollen and salt-encrusted from the swim that took nearly 53 hours. “You’re never too old to chase your dreams.”

Some 35 years earlier, Nyad, at the age of 28, made her first attempt at the swim. It would take 3 more attempts, including one in 2011 and 2012, enduring shoulder pain, a debilitating in-water asthma attack and multiple severe jellyfish stings, before Nyad would achieve her goal.

According to a press release, the show “showcases not only Nyad’s athletic feat, but also the tenacity and strength — both physical and mental — that helped her achieve her long-held dream in 2013. In addition, it spotlights the world-renowned athlete’s charismatic storytelling abilities and wry humor.”


Written and performed live by Nyad, “Onward” is directed and adapted for the stage by Josh Ravetch, the co-creator of Carrie Fisher’s “Wishful Drinking.”

Described as an inspirational, breathtaking and sometimes funny journey into adventure, the show takes audiences to the Florida Straits with Nyad as she endures a nighttime encounter with a swarm of dangerous jellyfish.

“Key West is my special place and the place that will forever be associated with the swim,” said Nyad. “It’s fitting that I take the stage on the island that was my home training base to bring the story to life in theatrical form.”

More information about the Key West performances, including times and tickets are available online at www.tskw.org. Nyad will also be available after each show to answer questions from the audience.