A CITY-BORN actor and writer is among local performers set to mark the centenary of the First World War in an evening of theatre.
Paul Nolan, will perform an excerpt of his new play ‘The Window’ at The Albany Theatre as part of their commemorative ‘Theatre Of War – The Pity’ series.
The play documents his own family’s experience of Coventry during World War One and is among three other local writers and groups commissioned by the theatre.
Speaking about the writing process, Mr Nolan said: “In January I delved into my family history, wrote, spoke and met some of my relatives for the first time, all the while making a genealogical journey.
“The findings introduced me to my Great Uncles, William, Albert and James O’Neil, who all served in France during the hostilities between 1915-1918.
“I was able to source copies of James’ sign up papers, and see a signature by his own hand as he enlisted into the ranks of the Durham Light Infantry.
“Reading these was humbling and poignant, and I felt that his story should be shared.”
The O’Neil family came from the Spon End area of the city, and the play looks at the lasting effect the Great War had on them all.
Other works to be performed at the event are ‘Home is the Hero’ by Peter Dineen, ‘All That’s Left’ by Alex Johnson, and ‘Hair Peace’ by Ego Performance Company.
‘Theatre of War – The Pity’ is being performed at the Albany Theatre on the eve of Remembrance Sunday, November 8 with tickets available from the box office on 02476 998964 or via www.albanytheatre.co.uk.
