Whitwell's War

It’s not very often that I am lucky enough to see an original production so Whitwell’s War came as a very refreshing change. Produced and written by Jeanne, this was an excellent contribution to both the larger First World War commemoration in Whitwell and also as a stand-alone production.

Jeanne had crafted the production based on letters and recollections from Whitwell soldiers, their families back home making the best of life without their loved ones and the poems of William Streets, who sent his poems back to Whitwell from the front.  All these strands were expertly weaved together with songs from the period including “Pack up your troubles”, “Good-bye-ee”, “Keep The Home Fires Burning” and a new composition from Peter “Going Down of the Sun”.

This was very much an ensemble piece which immediately drew in its audience who laughed, cried and were captivated from start to finish thanks to the heartfelt performances by one and all which included great vocal & acting work and brass playing.  

Although this was very much a production by Whitwell Players for the people of Whitwell it was in no way excluding.  I felt that I was a welcome guest and found the whole afternoon very engaging.

Sound, Lighting and costuming/stage props were again very well judged with minimal setting and key props keeping the focus where it needed to be.

So many congratulations to Luke, Paul, Neil, John, Lewis, Steve, David, Jack, Lauren, Joanne, Christina, Georgia, Nic, Joanna, Julie, Janet, Terri, William, Katie and of course Jeanne and Peter.

Thank you again for an excellent afternoon of highly personal community theatre.  Im glad I brought a tissue…

Martin Holtom

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