Oh! What a Lovely War
composed by Joan Littlewood, with her fellow artists in Theatre Workshop, London
Joan Littlewood's musical entertainment Oh! What a Lovely War
research by Gerry Raffles & Charles Chilton
title suggested by Ted Allan
In 1914 when the Army came to town they wanted just one thing - YOU! By 1918, millions of new recruits had left their homes and families and never returned. Eighty years later, a battalion of actors and musicians tell their story.
From within a custom-made big top, a cast of colourful characters swap hats, helmets and sides to give a vibrant and touching account of the four years that shaped the twentieth century.
So pack up your troubles and take your seats for an exhilarating exposé of an unforgettable moment in history.
Featuring the songs 'Keep the Home Fires Burning', 'It's a Long Way to Tipperary' and 'Goodbye-ee'.
Presented by the Royal National Theatre and Coin Street Community Builders in association with the Royal National Theatre's Platinum Corporate Members, the Royal National Theatre Foundation and Member Trusts of the Royal National Theatre, Coin Street Community Builders, South Bank Employers Group and the Arts Council National Lottery, with special thanks to The Archie Sherman Charitable Trust, The John S Cohen Foundation and The Save and Prosper Educational Trust.
Performed from 8-25 April 1998
