Events While Guarding the Bofors Gun

Synopsis

1954. Germany. Lance Bombardier Evans has one final night of duty to complete before returning to Britain. Engaged in guarding an obsolete Bofors gun, Evans is in command of Dan O'Rourke, an unpredictable gunner intent on self-destruction. As the night progresses and the futility of their exercise escalate, the men become trapped in an intense battle of wills.

Our Review:

1 June 2012

Based on the late playwright John McGrath's own experience of National Service during the 50s this incredibly well-written play set in the British occupied zone of West Germany during the Cold War in 1954 is enjoying its first London production in over 45 years.

As seven soldiers march onto the stage led by naïve boy bombardier Lance-Bombardier Evans (Lee Armstrong) on his first night as guard commander you can tell it's going to be a claustrophobic experience. Yet the set and atmosphere so perfectly convey the boxed in dilemma of our soldiers that the Finborough seems built for this play.

In a scathing display of anti-war symbolism the soldiers are ordered to guard a redundant anti-aircraft gun. Armed with redundant rifles (there's no ammo), they endure endless patrols and meaningless midnight watches in below zero temperatures coupled with the mind-numbing boredom of days with little much else to do.

Yet it's in this seemingly une...

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Latest User Review

Ali Thomas - 7 June 2012:

Went to watch this with my father who did military service in Germany 2 yrs after when the play is set. Apparently very true to life. Historical accuracy aside, I found this a superb play, very intense and claustrophobic and brilliantly acted. Not a single action or intonation out of place to break the spell. Charles Aitken especially worth seeing. Get a ticket if there are any left!...

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