Review: Private Peaceful at the Barn Theatre, Cirencester
On Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of attending a performance of Private Peaceful at the gorgeous Barn Theatre in Cirencester. I was already adamant in the belief that theatre was an essential part of British culture, but after many months of doubt and strife, this show rejuvenated my heartfelt belief. Private Peaceful is story-telling at its very best.
For those of you that aren’t familiar with Michael Morpurgo’s masterpiece, Private Peaceful follows the life of Thomas "Tommo" Peaceful as he takes us on a journey through his young carefree childhood, all the way through to the rat-riddled, filth-filled trenches of World War I in France. This is a story that can have you heartily chuckling one moment to feeling sick to your stomach the next, as the foul conditions and circumstances that the soldiers had to endure are narrated by our spirited protagonist.
The character of “Tommo” in the show is played by Emily Costello. The choice to cast an actress in the role is truly inspired and goes to show us that the horrors of war transcend race, gender or creed. Costello has such a dense amount of script to convey to the audience, narrating the majority of the piece, but through effortless charm and relentless energy, we cling to each and every word she utters until the lights goes down at the end of the performance. She manages to express the beautiful imagery of the narration, whilst at the same time, charming us with her characterisation of “Tommo”.
The other performer making up the show’s dynamic duo is the musical maestro that is James Demaine. Demaine is a one-man band, if you will, who produces the majority of music and soundscapes during the show. Moving flawlessly between characters and instruments, Demaine provides an absolute masterclass in performance. Both performers deliver the detailed script with such high energy (a script that could have fallen flat in less experienced hands) that you can’t help but be left in awe. In other words, bravo!
The direction and movement from Alexander Knott (Director) and Zöe Grain (Associate and Movement Director) is thought provoking and meticulous throughout. From every nuanced movement, to every shift in pace, you are left feeling fully immersed in the world and story. I also would be remiss not to mention the storytelling mastery showcased in the lighting design and visual effects, to make us feel at times like we are right in the middle of that war torn land. Commendation to BoxLess theatre for their bravery and innovation, we can’t wait to see more of their work in the future.
In this current time of division, uncertainty and fear, Private Peaceful is a poignant reminder that no one is “worthless” and that all of us must do what is right, not what is easy, for a bright future and better tomorrow. A must see.
***** Five stars
James Edge
