'˜Powerful piece' to commemorate first world war

Charging soldiers, from left, Jack Roberts, Neil Turk, Jack Ambrose and Robert Stuart PICTURE: MILES DAVIES

Joan Littlewood’s ground-breaking musical, Oh What A Lovely War, will be presented at The Barn Theatre, Southwick Street, Southwick, from March 5 to 8.

Told using songs from the period, the show is both a scathing attack on the futility of the conflict and a moving testament to the bravery of the men from both sides who made the ultimate sacrifice.

All the actors will be wearing Pierrot costumes throughout and using hats and props to differentiate between characters.

Publicity officer Sally Divers said: “This also allows for quick changes between scenes, reducing the need for actors to actually leave the stage.”

Director Richard Lindfield said it was a powerful piece of theatre.

“Oh What A Lovely War is not a history lesson, nor does it pretend to be even-handed,” he added.

“It is a satire echoing the thoughts of the then prime minister, Lloyd George, who declared that the British soldiers where lions led by donkeys.”

Performances are at 7.30pm daily, with a Saturday matinée at 2.30pm. Tickets are £12. Visit www.southwickplayers.org.uk or call 01273 597094.