TO MARK the 75th anniversary of D Day, a Bracknell-based arts centre is staging a play aimed at recreating the lives of those who went before us.
Their Finest Hour is the story of the RAF during the Second World War, as told through the eyes and words of those who were there.
The play takes place on the day of Bert’s funeral.
The family of the RAF Veteran gather at his home for a last farewell, when they discover an old suitcase full of memorabilia in his attic.
Including a photo from the morning after a night out in London which sparks memories.
“That was a night to remember. I’ll say no more. Our last day of leave. Within 24 hours of that picture we were over Germany again.”
This is an evening of storytelling, song, poetry and first-hand accounts from those who served with the Royal Air Force in Europe during the Second World War – the story of those who gave ‘their finest hour’.
The play is staged at South Hill Park from Wednesday, June 5 through to Saturday, June 8, and will be performed by a cast of eight local actors.
Writer Steve Darlow is an author of twenty books, documentary consultant, and publisher. He recently appeared in the Smithsonian Channel’s ‘Air Warriors – Spitfire’. Steve is one of the most knowledgeable and respected experts on the RAF campaigns of the Second World War and has met and interviewed a large number of the Pilot veterans featured in the play, whose words inspired him to write Their Finest Hour.
Co-producer Auriole Wells said: “These are not just wartime anecdotes we are telling, but real human stories of epic proportions. Extraordinary endeavours performed by ordinary people, woven through with the music and poetry of the time. Our Parents, Grand Parents and Great Grand Parents generation, all stood together when it was most needed.
“It’s incredible to think that 55,573 aircrew of Bomber Command lost their lives during the Second World War, yet no campaign medal was awarded and their bravery and sacrifice went largely unrecognized.
“When you look at their photos, they were brave young and handsome men and women, with kind gentle faces, tasked with doing the unthinkable, which they did in a world gone mad. I really hope that audiences come and support this production, as no matter what you think of what that generation had to do, we must treasure them, for they are nearly all gone.”
Witness history come to life in this truly unique and immersive production that lets you play your part in remembering this special generation…
To book tickets, log on to South Hill Park’s website, southhillpark.org.uk or call the Box Office on 01344 484123.
