Hard-hitting and thought-provoking stage adaptation of brilliant BirdsongBi

The horrors of the First World War are indeed incomprehensible to those who were not there, and it’s a challenge to even begin to portray the living hell on stage, but the production of Birdsong at Milton Keynes Theatre is certainly a powerful and thought-provoking attempt.

Whether you’re familiar with the novel or not, the story of Officer Wraysford’s time on the Western Front from 1916-18, entwined with his past love affair in Amiens in 1910, will not fail to move you.

It’s impossible to escape the fact this is not make-believe; the characters on the stage represent every man and boy who fought and lost their lives, their bodies, and their minds fighting for their country.

Although, as the soldiers say towards the end, they no longer knew or understood what they were fighting for.

There is a particularly touching moment in the final scenes when Wraysford comes face-to-face with a German soldier who is seeking vengeance for his brother’s death, pointing a gun at Wraysford’s head.

Half-dead already, barely able to lift his head, facing the barrel of the German’s gun, Wraylsford manages to hold up his fists, ready to fight.

The effect is both comical and heart-breaking.

Recognising the relevance the story has with the ongoing impact of the conflict of war on everyday life The Original Theatre Company and Birdsong Productions Ltd show is supporting Help For Heroes.

The show is not overdone, it’s a respectful adaption of a sensational novel and packs a profound punch without being unnecessarily over the top.

Starring Sarah Jayne Dunn, Jonathan Smith, Charlie G Hawkins and Arthur Bostrum, it’s not to be missed.

At Milton Keynes Theatre until July 27.