105 years since the end of World War I, or would have been known as The Great War at the time, we step into a time whereby the cusp of a global conflict appears very possible, current world events creating a ripple effect, impacting the geopolitics of the day. Crafted over 50 years ago, post World War II, Oh What a Lovely War offered a satirical historical lesson on the events that led up to, and inevitably formed the four year conflict – addressing the necessity to look back, to hopefully avoid what became one of the most catastrophic world events.
Performed by a musical troupe consisting of Christopher Arkeston, Tom Crabtree, Harry Curley, Alice E Mayer, Chroma Uma and Euan Wilson, we meander through a series of skits, scenarios and song to better understand the war conditions millions of soldiers would have endured. Compact world history compiled into a 2 hour production emanating vivacity and audacity! Joan Littlewood’s political theatre legacy lives on, prevalent more so than ever here. Nicky Allpress directs an amusing, energetic evening, considering the subject matter at hand, there’s a self deprecating humour that operates throughout, giving the show a human quality. Ellie Verkek’s musical direction drives the production, the casts effortless ability to shift mood an entertaining factor that makes this slice of history accessible to take in – like the Horrible Histories format which has become a standard. A recommended watch!
Oh What A Lovely War is currently showing until Saturday 9th December at the Southwark Playhouse. To find out more about the production, visit here…
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