Billy Bishop Goes To War
2.5 (2) · Musicals, Fringe Theatre
Based on the true story, and brought to life with musical numbers, this production of Billy Bishop Goes to War transfers to Southwark Playhouse from 13 March after a critically acclaimed run at the Jermyn Street Theatre.
Overview
Billy Bishop, a failing Canadian military college student, overcomes intense prejudice and astonishing danger to receive his wings to become the most successful fighter pilot of his generation. This compelling and darkly comic drama interrogates the nature of heroism and its cost while shining a light on the often-neglected complexities of Britain’s colonial past. ‘Charles Aitken shines’ (Entertainment Focus) and ‘Oliver Beamish sparkles’ (The Stage) in this ‘absolutely phenomenal’ (Theatre Box) and ‘captivating’ (Broadway World) production, ‘Skilfully directed’ (Reviewsgate) by Jimmy Walters.
Critic reviews
If you’re willing to leave the scepticism to one side, it’s a rather remarkable history. By the time you get to the end it’s clear that no one intends on glorifying war. It’s a fascinating story told with the right level of charm, humour and poignancy
Pointless revival of this two-hander musical about a Canadian flying ace
Funny, moving and filled with excitement that audiences of any age can enjoy
A captivating insight in to the Canadian involvement in The Great War, showing both the seductive glory of war and its tragic cost
The history of the Empire servicemen who came to fight for Britain without really knowing why, is simply and sensitively told
Definitely one to catch if you can
Beautifully produced, timely revival of John MacLachlan Gray’s poignant portrait of a Canadian First World War pilot
A ballad of survival that essentially sees a young boy struggling to find a way to come out alive from an unjust war
A ripping yarn based on the true story of a surprisingly divisive figure feels like a boys own story straight out of a war comic. Great stuff!
Creatives
Date & time
Venue
Presented by
