Wartime play at Kenilworth theatre brings home and front to life

The Kenilworth theatre’s production of Peter Whelan’s The Accrington Pals runs from Wednesday September 10 to Saturday September 20, with sales from the opening night going towards the Royal British Legion (RBL).

Based on the true story of the men of Accrington who, in 1914, answered the call to arms and raised a volunteer battalion, the story also looks at the profound change experienced by the women they left behind.

From the streets of the town to the trenches in France, the characters live out their day-to-day lives with humour and stoicism, unaware of the catastrophe that will befall them.

Chris Sharp, who is co-directing the production with Susi Walker, said: “Our dedicated cast have been working very hard to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the time and place. With many familiar faces and some new to the Priory stage, there are some fine performances taking shape.

“Please join us to commemorate all those whose lives were touched by ‘the war to end all wars’.”

The charity night on September 10 is being run by the RBL’s Kenilworth branch.

Performances begin at 7.30pm each evening (no performance on Sunday). To book tickets, call 863334.