Review: We Happy Few, Festival Theatre, Malvern (until Saturday)

THIS world premiere was purposely staged as we approached Remembrance Sunday, and what a fitting tribute. Not only to the many who - in conflict - laid down their lives on some foreign field, but also to those who made sacrifices at home.

Inspired and based on the true Second World War story of Nancy Hewins and her all female theatre troupe - seven women who formed the Osiris Repertory Company - it is a tale of human endeavour and amazing commitment, with that everyday flavour of life. The spot of comedy, tragedy, inspiration and the mundane - all acted with a style and elegance expected of such a talented cast.

Those remarkable Osiris ladies travelled all over the British mainland between 1939 and 1945 giving some 1,500 performances of Shakespeare and other works in all manner of venues.

Although the original troupe do go back some 10 years earlier.

But for the purpose of the stage the ladies came together as war clouds gathered.

Hetty, who is played with such conviction by Susan Brown, is based on the touring group's inspirational leader. She had great support in the adventure from Flora, and with the delightful Marcia Warren in this role there was support all over set.

David Shaw-Parker, who played a variety of roles, did so brilliantly and with such little effort. One character in particular proving that in adversity we can still raise a smile.

Imogen Stubbs, the renowned actress and writer, must surely have been pleased with how her new play was both portrayed on stage and received by an enthusiastic audience.

Theatre reviews can often glibly say 'this is one not to be missed' but I would wholeheartedly put this in that category.

Young or old, while we have many acts of remembrance in our mind, this is a play that will not only entertain but also make you think, and appreciate more, the sacrifices that have been made in war-time.

AW