Words by Gordon Brigg.

The Phoenix Youth Theatre performance of ‘Private Peaceful’ at the Phoenix Theatre was very impressive. Author Simon Reade has adapted his play from the novel by Michael Morpurgo. It is a deeply moving portrayal of camaraderie and courage, innocence and brutality.

Director, Sarah O’Neill, says this is her most challenging production and she has succeeded in developing and training this fine ensemble of players.

The story begins in rural Devon and moves to the trenches at the front line in France during WW1.

The play contains some adult themes, such as the tale of two brothers in love with the same girl in the first half, as well as the horrors of the trenches in the First World War following on in this fascinating story. These young actors dealt admirably with these challenges.

All the cast deserve congratulations for their performances in this tale and managing the many scene changes, which were seamless and covered with some hauntingly beautiful music.

With regret, I cannot mention every person’s performance because of lack of space, but these a few of the most memorable;

Ben Butler, as Tommo Peaceful, was very mature in his reflective role and the pacing of his part –a superb performance. Ed Poynton showed an authority in his part as the Colonel and Sgt Hanley. The ‘other’ Tommo Peaceful performed by Joe Lowen-Grey was a fine study in the vulnerability of his character.

Zoe Doughty, playing Molly, displays a well developed sense of love and affection towards the brothers – I loved her facial expressions. Yasmin Poole playing the innkeeper was a real fire cracker – well done with the French accent. Ollie O’Neill’s guitar playing helped create the atmosphere among the waiting troupes. Adam Warner played the part of the rather slow brother Big Joe, with sensitivity and control. Sam Callen as Charlie Peaceful dealt brilliantly with the demanding adaptations of his part and he broke all of our hearts with his final speeches.

Costumes, lighting, sound and scene changes are so important in this play which is very demanding to stage. All of these were done with a professional type touch.

The first half contained some charming scenes, notably a delightful bathing scene with Charlie, Tommo and Molly. There were many fine pieces of theatre in Act 2 with the trench scenes conveying the horrors of war.

This was a quality production which will have a lasting effect on all who watched it.