Billy Bishop Goes To War, Southwark Playhouse

[Steve]

Get to this before it closes on April 6th, and you will NOT regret it. The most fun I've ever had seeing a show about war, which sounds like a veiled criticism, but is in fact an admission and an absolute compliment. Most of the credit in this flawless production, about a Canadian WWI flying ace, (and enormous credit is due to everyone involved,) goes to an astonishing performance by actor Charles Aitken, who is so generous and alive in his performance that I was alternatively thrilled, laughing and crying all in one show, and often in the space of moments. He goes on my I-will-book-it-if-he's-in-it list instantly.

I only booked this yesterday for a Saturday night, so I know there are loads of tickets available, and if you get the chance, don't cheat yourself out of one of the best theatrical shows and one of the best performances of the year!

For now, I'm loathe to say any more for fear of spoiling the rollercoaster ride of the performance and the show. Really, do yourself a favour, and see this if you can.

5 stars, without question. Utterly brilliant.

[robertb213]

Glad to hear the positive comments, I'm going this weekend - I thought it was a musical though?

[Steve]

Mar 25, 2019 21:27:20 GMT robertb213 said:

Glad to hear the positive comments, I'm going this weekend - I thought it was a musical though?

I'm glad you brought up the music. It's incredibly emotive and effective, and crops up every fifteen minutes or so.

There are even songs, where Follies-like, old Billy Bishop and young Billy Bishop get to sing together. It's marvellous.

I categorised this as a play because the songs didn't seem to drive the storytelling, merely reflect it, so for me, a play with music.

But fans of musicals should really consider this, as the book AND the songs AND the performances are all terrifically moving.

[highonahill]

Saw this this afternoon. Definitely in the play with music category for me, but wow what a tour de force, particularly for Charles Aitken! His monologue telling the tale of Albert Ball was incredibly moving and in sharp contrast to the lighter, more humorous moments.

Made my early start for a morning course worthwhile! Thank goodness for Tuesday matinées...