On November 17th to 19th, Honiton Community Theatre Company will be putting on an adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s famous novel ‘Private Peaceful’. It tells the stories of two young brothers from Devon, their friends, family and what happens to them during the First World War.
The novel that the stage production is adapted from is written by Michael Morpurgo the famous local writer. He has written the international success-story of stage and screen ‘War Horse’ and a multitude of other novels often based around conflict and war. Director Sally Cregan explains “I am incredibly excited to be directing the dramatic and powerful play, Private Peaceful, by the local award winning author Michael Morpurgo. The novel, which has now been made into both a film and a play, tells the thought provoking story of a soldier reliving his life before being shot at dawn for cowardice. This poignant but joyous tale will give actors the opportunity to develop strong characterisations and relationships on stage. Whilst there is a strong youth element to the production there are also many parts for older actors. So do join us at our open evening.”
We wanted to use this play to commemorate the victims of war both from the worldwide conflicts and more recent events. Vice Chairperson of the group Alex Jackson explains “we chose to perform the play in November to tie in with remembrance Sunday. This touching story is just one example of the hundreds from across the rural community in the South West that we know so well.”
There are exciting plans for the show including having live brass instruments to create an authentic sound scene for the play. The connection to Devon is one which we’re really proud to portray especially in demonstrating the impact that war had on rural communities across Britain.
We’ll be holding an open evening where anyone (12+) interested in taking part in the play is invited to come along and see how they can get involved. We’ll run through the parts and all our plans for the production. Plus tickets are currently on sale for their summer musical comedy ‘Urinetown’ at The Beehive (11th to 13th August)
The Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 6th July at 7pm in The Beehive, followed by an audition workshop on Sunday 17th July at 1:30pm and auditions on Sunday 24th July at 1:30pm. All are welcome ages 12+.