A new tour based on Sebastian Faulks’s acclaimed novel is set to open at Salisbury Playhouse this September.
Lead casting has been confirmed for Alastair Whatley’s production of the novel, which has been adapted by Rachel Wagstaff.
It has been announced that Max Bowden, best known for the roles of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders and Justin Fitzgerald in Waterloo Road, will star as Jack Firebrace in the new UK tour of the production, which marks the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel.
Further casting has yet to be announced.
In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground. Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him
A mesmerising story of love and courage. Set both before and during the Great War.
Talking about joining the cast, Max Bowden said: “I’m so excited to be collaborating with Original Theatre again on a project close to my heart. Birdsong highlights the tragedy of war, yet the beauty of humanity simultaneously through strong relationships under extreme circumstances, and I can’t wait to bring Jack Firebrace to life under their guidance.”
Meanwhile, the creative team behind the production includes: designer Richard Kent, lighting designer Jason Taylor, sound designer Dominic Bilkey, and casting director Ellie Collyer-Bristow.
To find out more about the UK tour visit: https://www.birdsongplay.com/