Joan Littlewood’s Oh What a Lovely War is set to return to Theatre Royal Stratford East 50 years after it first premiered at the London venue.

Directed by Olivier award-winner Terry Johnson and designed by Lez Brotherston, the revival will run from February 1 to March 15, 2014.

The musical originally premiered at Theatre Royal Stratford East on March 19, 1963 before transferring to the West End later that year and then opening on Broadway in 1964.

Oh What a Lovely War was created by Theatre Workshop, Charles Chilton, Gerry Raffles and members of the original cast, with the title suggested by Ted Allen. Raymond Fletcher was the military adviser.

Kerry Michael, artistic director of Theatre Royal Stratford East, said: “We are delighted to be bringing Oh What a Lovely War back to Theatre Royal Stratford East in its 50^th anniversary year and to coincide with the 100^th anniversary of the First World War. Joan Littlewood’s landmark production was ahead of its time when it was first staged here, challenging our perceptions of war. It also played a significant part in the transformation of British theatre.”

He added: “We are very proud that we have assembled a world-class creative team for this important production. We will remain true to the spirit of the original and will be re-creating it to resonate with modern audiences.”