The excellent Birmingham Stage Company is currently on tour with two plays based on Terry Deary’s Horrible Histories. Woeful Second World War is performed alternatively with Frightful First World War, which has been adapted for the stage by Mark Williams.
Frightful First World War is shorter, sharper and has more impact. Chronicling major events of the time, which have been simplified for primary school children, it’s told through stories enacted by the superb, four-strong cast who appear in a variety of disguises.
Ciaran McConville and Laura Dalgleish play everything from Germany and a field doctor to Belgium and a mother. Matthew Schmolle plays Paul, a 15-year-old soldier, while Perry Lambert is the pivotal character of Angelica, who becomes trapped inside her computer during the First World War.
When the audience dons the Boggle Goggles, the excitement is palpable and screams reach deafening pitch as missiles and debris appear to aim directly overhead, thanks to the superb 3D effects.
The combination of Deary’s powerful writing and Clark’s skilful adaptation and direction, plus the creative team of Jacqueline Trousedale and Amazing Interactives, Tom Lishman’s excellent sound effects and Jason Taylor’s first-rate lighting, make this an informative and enjoyable experience for adults and children alike.
Punctuated with humour and audience participation, the important message remains clear and is punched home in the midst of battle. Yet another superb example of history brought vividly to life.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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