MID Powys Youth Theatre has a track record of bringing daring, original theatre to this part of the world, and this year will be no different. While last autumn marked the remarkable company’s 30th birthday this year will mark an anniversary of a very different kind – the centenary of the armistice that ended the First World War.
Joan Littlewood’s iconic musical, ‘Oh, What A Lovely War’, was first performed at the Theatre Royal Stratford East in 1963, to rave audience and critical reaction. MPYT’s young company of actors, musicians and technicians is preparing to demonstrate that the play is just as relevant to today with a production that aims to delight through the charm and quirkiness of an Edwardian ‘Pierrot’ show alongside depictions of the very real – and very human – cost of war.
Rosie McConnell – co-director of the production with Kama Roberts – praised the approach of the young company in their work on researching the history. “They’ve really thrown themselves into the study of the Great War and the period in research for the show. At the same time, they’ve built a hard-working, creative ensemble group that really suits the demands of this play. It’s been heart-warming to see.”
MPYT expects that throughout the play there will be times when the audience don’t know whether to laugh, cry or just sing along – everyone will know the songs for sure - and may well end up doing all three.
“Oh, What A Lovely War” runs at Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells from November 8-10, with a specially discounted matinee peformance at 2pm on Saturday when all tickets are just £6.
Tickets can be purchased through the Wyeside Box Office on 01982 552 555 or by going online at www.wyeside.co.uk.