Performing Arts students at Shrewsbury College will stage a heart-warming adaptation of Peter Whelan's epic play, Accrington Pals, next week to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War One..
The critically acclaimed screenplay, which dramatises the lives of ordinary people caught up in the historical events of WWI, possesses significant relevance as this year marks 100 years since the start of the Great War.
Gina Evans, Performing Arts Lecturer at Shrewsbury College, said: ‘’As this year bears particular significance to the war, we thought it would be a good opportunity for our students to focus on something that was not only interesting and challenging, but historically important.
‘’Funny, intimate and moving, The Accrington Pals portrays the terrifying reality hundreds of men faced at the Battle of the Somme in 1916.’’
Year 1 HND Performing Arts student, Kenny Knockes, 19, from Tregynon, Powys, said: “I play Ralph, a character that saw signing up to war as an adventure rather than a duty. It has been challenging to act out extreme scenarios and emotions I haven’t previously had to evoke.
‘’What is great about this script, is that it empathises with all those who were affected by the war, including the women left behind.
“The play has a quick, upbeat pace that is refreshing to be a part of and for audiences to watch. Despite its seemingly dark nature, there are plenty of comforting and comical moments.’’
Performances of the play will take place next Wednesday, January 5 and Thursday, January 6 from 7.30 – 10pm.
Members of the public are invited to attend, and tickets are now on sale from Shrewsbury College at £7 for adults and£4 concessions.
For more information about the Performing Arts courses at Shrewsbury Colleges please visit their website or call 01743 342333. Follow us on Facebook: ShrewsburyCollege and like us on Twitter: @shrewburycol
