Blackeyed Theatre has announced a major revival of Oh What a Lovely War to mark the 60th anniversary of Joan Littlewood’s epic anti-war musical.
A cornerstone of modern musical theatre and one of the very greatest stage satires, Oh What a Lovely War will tour nationally but is coming to Southwark later this month.
Conceived and developed by Joan Littlewood and her Theatre Workshop in 1963, Oh What a Lovely War remains a classic of modern theatre, a fusion of timeless songs – including Pack Up Your Troubles and It’s a Long Way to Tipperary – razor-sharp satire and high jinks, offering a satirical account of the First World War as seen through the eyes of the common soldier.
Wildly satirical, visually stunning, and deeply moving, the show is a hilarious, heart-breaking snapshot of life for those caught in the crossfire of conflict, a unanimous voice from the trenches and a timely warning from the theatre of war itself.
Now, more than ever, it holds a mirror up to the world and speaks to us all.
It continues to spark controversy for its portrayal of the officer class as inept and uncaring.
Conservative MP Michael Gove once hit out at the show, citing it as “a left wing attempt to peddle unpatriotic myths”, suggesting it “denigrates the patriotism, humour and courage demonstrated by ordinary British soldiers in the first world war”.
In fact the play is a reflection of public opinion in the 1960s, when people wanted to know how the terrible loss of life in WW1 could be allowed to happen in the manner in which it happened.
The play continues to be regarded as giving voice to the ordinary British ‘Tommy’.
Director Nicky Allpress commented, ‘I’m so thrilled to be directing this unique piece of theatrical history, having followed Blackeyed Theatre and their extraordinary work for many years.
“One of the most exciting things about Oh What a Lovely War is how universal, timeless, and ever relevant it is, and testament to the brilliance of the work is how it can bear endless reinterpretation.
“Our concept will explore the idea of war as a circus, with an incredibly talented company of actor-musicians bringing Joan Littlewood’s ground-breaking classic to life with music, comedy, and stories.’
Southwark Playhouse Borough, 77-85 Newington Causeway
London SE1 6BD from 21 November – 9 December. Times: 7.30pm, matinees 3pm. Admission: £20 – £25.
Booking: www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk
