The book Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo has been adapted and directed by Simon Reade to bring this story set during World War I to the stage.
Benjamin Cain delivers a powerful performance in the role of Tommo Peaceful. He starts out as a young primary school pupil, to his first love, and how he follows his older brother Charlie into the army at 16 after lying about his age during conscription. Which I dare many hundreds of other young men also did at the time.
The early years growing up in the countryside and finding his feet sound idyllic, although not perfect, as his family faced unprecedented hardships.
Tommo’s explanation of the battlefield and life being pushed to the limits during World War I are harrowing at times. The grown-up situations he finds himself thrown into in the name of war become even more poignant when you remind yourself that the young soldier is only 16.
What is striking about this production is the storytelling skills from Cain. The props are minimal with the campbed centre stage that doubles as the wire fance on the frontline. A strong solo performance, which has a range of characters who have all left an impression on the young soldier. The biggest influence and idol in his life is his brother Charlie.
The visual horrors of war are left largely to the imagination of the audience through listening to Cains narrative. Alongside the lighting design by Adam Foley and the gunfire and other sound effects by sound designer, Jason Barnes brings the battlefield to life.
The standing ovation and tears from some of the audience members leaving the auditorium speak volumes to how powerful this adaptation is. I highly recommend catching it while it continues on tour.
For more information about Private Peaceful and future productions at Theatre Royal Winchester, please use the link below.
Five Stars.
Photo credit Craig Fuller.
https://www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/events/private-peaceful/
Leave a comment