Details

Sad and troubled, young William Beech is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside as Britain stands on the brink of World War II and is billeted with the curmudgeonly recluse Tom Oakley. Tom and Will build a remarkable and moving friendship, an unlikely bond which transforms them both, only to have their newfound happiness shattered when Will is summoned back to London by his mother. Heart-warming and inspiring, this story of two broken souls at opposite ends of the age scale celebrates the value of love and proves that friendship knows no barriers. Perfect for schools and families; suitable for children aged from 8 years.

Cast/Performers

Louise Collins (Ginnie / Nurse), Laura Cubitt (Sammy / Puppeteer), Kamran Darabi Ford (George / Policeman), Oliver Ford Davies (Tom Oakley), Joanne Howarth (Mrs Fletcher / Glad / Social Worker), Anne Kavanagh (Dr Little / Mrs Miller), Aoife McMahon (Mrs Annie Hartridge / Mrs Beeach), Freya Parker (Carrie / Sister), Georgina Sutton (Billeting Officer / Miss Thorne), Alan Vicary (Mr Miller / ARP Warden), Jonathan Warde (Charlie Ruddles / David Hartridge / Vicar / Ticket Collector / Mr Stelton), Emma Drysdale (Understudy)

Creatives/Company

Book by: Michelle Magorian
Lyrics(s): Michelle Magorian, Gary Carpenter (additional lyrics)
Music(s): Gary Carpenter, John Tams, Matthew Scott
Producer: Chichester Festival Theatre (in association with The Children's Touring Partnership)
Adapted by: David Wood
Director: Angus Jackson
Design: Robert Innes Hopkins
Lighting: Tim Mitchell
Sound: Gregory Clark
Other: Toby Olie (puppets and puppetry)