The Accrington Pals follows the story of the innocent and enthusiastic men who volunteered their services to their country after Kitchener's calls for a New Army. Their experiences of life on the Western Front are contrasted with the women who are left behind in Accrington, women who come together as friends when facing financial, social and sexual deprivation, as well as being thrown into the social changes that came along with the absence of many men.
The main characters, too, are contrasted; May, as independent, hard-working, fruit and veg stall holder, Tom, her lodger, as optimistic and idealistic and Eva, May's trusted and generous confidante and sweetheart of Ralph. The play has fun and light-hearted moments, which are starkly contrasted with the terrifying reality hundreds of men faced at the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Director: John Holt |
gallery
(Photos by martin ogden)
The 'pals march'
![]() A special thanks to arranger Nick Bonneville and the East Lancashire Concert Band for allowing us to use the 'Pals March' in our upcoming production.
|
cast
May - Lorraine Cox
Eva - Charlotte Ashworth Sarah - Elisabeth Burgon Bertha - Emma Toms Annie - Hilary Eastwood Tom - Jack Forrest Arthur - Leon McKenna Ralph - Sean Howarth CSM Rivers - Keith McEvoy Reggie - Connor O'Brien |