Tynecastle play returns
A War of Two Halves to get further performances
Site-specific play A War of Two Halves, based on the WW1 story of McCrae’s Battalion, is to get a further performances this November following its a hugely successful run during this year’s EdFringe.
The play relates the story of the Hearts team which went to war, along with many players from other teams and football supporters. The promenade production, staged in the stands and dressing rooms of Tynecastle Park, was given a rare five star accolade by our reviewer Hugh Simpson.
A scene from A War of Two Halves. Pic: Company
In 1914 Edinburgh’s Heart of Midlothian Football Club had won 19 of 21 matches and stood on the brink of becoming Scottish league champions. In a remarkable show of comradeship and courage, 13 of their players volunteered to serve together in McCrae’s Battalion destined to fight in France.
Their story is told in an evocative and dramatic journey through Tynecastle Park led by the players/soldiers as they go from the football fields of Gorgie to the battlefields of the Somme.
Written by Paul Beeson and Tim Barrow, and featuring a cast of young Scottish actors, A War of Two Halves is directed by Bruce Strachan, Artistic Director of Nonsense Room Productions.
Strachan said: This is a truly iconic story and is absolutely synonymous with Edinburgh and Heart of Midlothian Football Club. It is an honour for us to bring this story to life. With 2018 marking 100 years since the signing of the Armistice, it is the perfect time to share the remarkable story of “the bravest team” for a new generation of fans.
“Every Hearts fan will have heard of McCrae’s Battalion – this is the chance to really understand their story. For a wider audience, the opportunity to experience a behind-the-scenes view of a football stadium with a dramatic re-telling of historical events.”
Tickets are priced at £24 for adults and £20 for concessions. Fans of all football clubs are welcome and the production is suitable for ages 12 and upwards.
Listing
A War of Two Halves,
Tynecastle Park, Gorgie Road, EH11 2NL
Friday 2 – Sunday 11 November 2018
Twice daily (Not Mon 5, Sat 10): 6pm & 8.30pm.
Schools performances Tue 6, Wed 7: 1pm, 3pm.
Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
Production website: https://www.awaroftwohalves.com
Facebook: @awaroftwohalves
Twitter: @HeartsMcCrae
The McCrae’s Battalion Trust: www.mccraesbattaliontrust.org.uk
ENDS
