Features

Five Reasons To See … Journey’s End

Glenn Meads

David Grindley directs the hugely successful R.C. Sherriff play Journey’s End and it makes a return visit to Salford next month at the Lowry – following recent success in the West End. We caught up with David to find out his five reasons why you should go along.


1. Authenticity
The playwright, R.C. Sherriff, served in the trenches in the First World War and Journey’s End is the only full length play written in English by a veteran. This is particularly resonant during Remembrance Week when we are reminded of the human cost of war and how important it is to keep recognising its consequences.

2. Unforgettable
The play was a sensation when it first opened in 1929, despite the theatre establishment being convinced it would fail because there was no leading lady, had only one set and took place during the First World War. In the first two staged readings of the play, Laurence Olivier originated the part of Captain Stanhope. Committed to a production of Beau Geste, he was the only member of the original company not to participate in the fully fledged production. Colin Clive stepped into Olivier’s shoes. Even now, in 2011, Journey’s End continues to sear itself onto the audiences’ imagination.

3. An Award Winning Production
This production has enjoyed 2 outings in the West End, 4 UK tours and a run on Broadway, delivering the Tony Award for Best Revival.

4. Unmissable Acting
The present cast of 11 which includes Nick Hendrix, Graham Butler, Simon Dutton, Christopher Patterson and Tony Turner, deliver a scintillating showcase in ensemble acting. They expertly portray the loyalty, courage and great good humour that allows people to survive life in the front line.

5. Immersive Experience
The realism of the set and costume design by Jonathan Fensom, lighting by Jason Taylor and sound by Gregory Clarke is so detailed that the audience is completely drawn into the experience. In fact at one point they believe they are part of the action as well.


Journey’s End is at the Lowry from 8 – 12 November, 2011