Soldiers of Tomorrow by Itai Erdal and Colleen Murphy is an intimate thought-provoking play by a former conscript soldier from the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).

The play title originated from an anecdote, which is about Erdal’s 8-year-old nephew. When he bought an empty shoe box home from his Israeli school with a request to fill it with items for a soldier serving in the forces. The inscription on the inside of the lid read “To the soldiers of today from the soldiers of tomorrow.” A striking statement that left an impression on me.

The play is based on Erdals’ stories from his early life growing up in Jerusalem and then, from his time as a serving officer, and some of the difficult decisions he was faced with while serving. Finally, he chose to emigrate and live in Canada.

However, even though he served his time. The play is an anti-war message where he raises concerns about how young people are educated with a nationalitic viewpoint. This in turn draws the next generation of young soldiers into ongoing conflict with no sign of a resolution.

One thing I always find fascinating when I visit Finborough Theatre is how the limited space makes room for the plays and audiences. This production uses the windowed outside wall as the stage backdrop painted in a mural style map of the Gaza area, which Erdal uses for reference throughout the play. Designed by set designer Brian Ball.

The play is accompanied by an accomplished Syrian born composer and musician, Emad Armoush. I would have preferred to have listened to him while Erdal wasn’t talking as it could be slightly distracting, and I didn’t want to miss any of the dialogue.

For more information about Soldiers of Tomorrow and future productions at Finborough Theatre, please use the link below.

Four Stars.

https://www.finboroughtheatre.co.uk/productions/soldiers-of-tomorrow