Private Peaceful is in town

The story relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural Devon: his exciting first days at school; the accident in the forest that killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the love of his life; and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line. Morpurgo’s inspiration for Private Peaceful came from a visit to Ypres where he was shocked to discover how many young soldiers were court-martialled and shot for cowardice during the First World War. It was first published in 2003 and adapted for the stage by Simon Reade in 2004. Since 2005, Scamp’s award-winning production has gone on to play at the Edinburgh Festival, three seasons in the West End and on sell-out tours to great acclaim. A film version was released in 2012.

The adaptor Simon Reade also directs. Associate director is Mark Leipacher, with sound design by Jason Barnes. Performed by Andy Daniel. Most suitable for ages 8+ and tickets cost £13 and are available from www.courttheatre.co.uk or the box office: 07543 560 478 or Beechwood Fine Foods, Frogmore Street, Tring, HP23 5AU (cash only).