James Esler & Charlie Russell in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong (c) Pamela Raith Photography
Sebastian Faulks’s epic story of love and loss, Birdsong, returns to the stage in a brand-new production for 2024 at the Liverpool Playhouse from Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th October. Featuring award-winning actor Max Bowden (EastEnders), this production marks the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel.
The critically acclaimed show, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and directed by Original Theatre’s Artistic Director, Alastair Whatley, tells the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War.
Max Bowden (EastEnders) who plays Jack Firebrace 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.”
James Esler (Litvinenko) will play Stephen Wraysford alongside Charlie Russell (The Goes Wrong Show, And Then There Were None (BBC)) as Isabelle Azaire. They are joined by Joseph Benjamin Baker as Evans, Raif Clarke as Tipper, James Findlay as Brennan, Dave Fishley as Turner/Chaplain, Gracie Follows as Lisette, Sulin Hasso as Marguerite, Tama Phethean as Arthur Shaw/John, Natalie Radmall-Quirke as Jeanne/Nurse, Roger Ringrose as Bérard/Barclay and Sargon Yelda as René Azaire/Gray.
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.
The creative team includes Designer Richard Kent, Lighting Designer Jason Taylor, Composer Sophie Cotton, Sound Designer Dominic Bilkey, and Casting by Ellie Collyer-Bristow (CDG). This production is presented by Original Theatre and JAS Theatricals, in association with Joshua Beaumont & Huw Allen, Tiny Giant Entertainment, Birdsong Productions, and Wiltshire Creative, at the Liverpool Playhouse from Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th October. Tickets priced from £11 to £31 are available at www.everymanplayhouse.com/whats-on/birdsong
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