Reviews

“Wonderful. Wonderful. If you were involved in any way , from whatever background, in the Irish conflict- go and see it. Even if you're not usually a theatre goer- go and see it.

This is a fascinating production that will open your eyes. For me, the highlight among a very high class of actors was the interaction of the four young soldiers in the Trenches (Shaun Coyle, Ryan Boyd, Peter McDonald, Sean Canning)- I would never have believed in the suspension of reality they created- that I could be drawn into the Trenches beside them.

They were 'real.' I would single out the wonderful monologue by Shaun Coyle, as Pt Rpbbie McClean of the 36th Ulsters, when he describes in lyrical and yet very human details his experiences on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. The audience was spellbound. A fine script ,evocatively performed. His poignant description of regaining consciousness and, for an instant, thinking he was back 'sunning his limbs on Creggan Hill' was the apex of a performance which will linger long in my mind. I never thought I could be drawn into the actors' world of Messines, 1917, in this way. James Lecky is superb in the lead role of Major Willie Redmond- a convincing, thoughtful performance- and a fine set, sound effects and music with inspired direction combine to bring to life this 'world apart' of the Belgian front that the Major refers to in the play. One not to miss.”

Wayne Ross, Belfast based writer and broadcaster

"A brilliant production- worth going to see just for the performance by young actor Shaun Coyle as Pte Robbie McClean of the 36th Ulsters. A confident, powerrful performance which commanded the stage and the audience. It is so exciting so see such a performance from a new talent, a young actor whom I have no doubt is going to do so well. Peter McDonbald also had a fine and thoughfully crafted, quietly evocative performance as Lance Cpl Michael Conroy of the 16th irish...all four young actors playing the soldiers in the Trenches really captured the mood and spirit of the period. Brilliant direction, set, staging, music and sound effects combine to bring Felicity McCall's emotive and acutely observed script to life. It captures the imagination. It gripped the audience from start to finish and, I am convinced, will stay with them long after they have left the theatre. “

Eileen Walsh, Arts Critic, freelance journalist and broadcaster