Birdsong

★★★★★ "Riveting" Daily Telegraph

★★★★★ “Hauntingly beautiful" The Recs

Sebastian Faulks’s epic story of love and loss returns to the stage marking the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel.

The critically acclaimed show returns in a brand-new production for 2024. Telling the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War.

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.

Once seen never forgotten.

Starring award-winning actor Max Bowden, best known for the role of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, and Charlie Russell (BBC's The Goes Wrong Show).

Age guidance 15+
This production contains nudity and simulated sexual content, strong language, sexual references, themes of war, death and violence and references to abuse.

“A true tour de force” Winchester Today

“A beautifully dark and moving story… superb performances. You could hear a pin drop as the emotions washed over the audience.” Salisbury Radio

“This epic play will bring a tear to the eye and a newfound respect for those real men and women who endured the horrors of the First World War.” Salisbury Radio