I found that the play started very slowly and during the first half not much happened. But there are long stretches in war when very little happens either and the play manages to capture the tension of anxious waiting and nervous conversations, while telling us the background of the characters' lives and the tensions between them.
As a result, when battle starts with first with a raid on enemy lines, then with the big German attack - I felt as if I knew all the characters well and I genuinely cared about what happened to them all.
David Grindley's excellently acted production, with a detailed and atmospheric dug-out design by Jonathan Fensom and exceptional sound effects by Gregory Clarke created one of the most realistic plays I have ever seen, bringing tears to my eyes during the poignant ending and it gave me an understanding of the reality of warfare.
Ben Righton as Stanhope, perfectly captured the character's shredded nerves, alcoholic self-loathing, and intense strength and will that make him such a magnificent commanding officer. At the young age of 21, after three years of having fought a war in which he lost most of his comrades, he has seen more than any man should have to deal with.
Michael Siberry is excellent too, as the avuncular Lieutenant Osborne, a kind, patient former schoolmaster, who is much older than his fellow officers and is affectionately known as Uncle, just managing to keep the normality of life alive for his comrades.
And I also thought that Tom Payne was exceptionally good in his West-End debut role of the eager young recruit Raleigh. Who hero-worshipped Stanhope when they were at school but disappointingly found out that the boy he had once adored had changed completely due to the effects and strain of war. I also really liked Roger Walker’s performance as the cheerful, jolly character of Trotter, whose confidence and self reliance was admired much by his fellow officers.
Another character portrayed well was that of Mason the company’s chef (Roderick Smith). He provided comic relief which lightened up the play and gave a good straightforward performance that was clever and witty.
I also think that Jake Hardy who played Hibbert performed well giving a successful portrayal of his characters cowardice and desperation that made him long to be like his fellows who seemed brave and chivalrous.
I thought that this play was a well written masterpiece that showed the reality of warfare and the effects it had mentally on all the soldiers. I would definitely recommend this play as it is a moving realistic look into the past and it helps you to understand the true emotions of those who had to fight.
Alycia Swain 10FM