Oh What a Lovely War

By Joan Littlewood

Theatre Royal Bath until March 14

JOAN Littlewood’s original production of this savagely anti-war musical, in 1963 at her innovative Theatre Royal in Stratford East, provoked strong protest in some quarters.

Fifty years later, its anti-war theme is no less powerful, but we are better informed about the brutal truth of what her drama illustrated and more likely to cheer than complain.

The social order has also shifted. Elders are not necessarily our betters and politicians are no longer trusted to do what is right.

Nevertheless the musical has lost none of its impact. As with the original it is an ensemble production. Every member of the cast plays multiple roles. The shock value is created by a jolly end-of-the pier show setting, as a viewpoint for a war game. As the game progresses, the silent and horrifying statistics of millions of dead for no gain are displayed tickertape-style. It is chilling and moving.

The cast capture brilliantly the contrasting characteristics of blind patriotism and senseless slaughter, the voice of reason overcome by ignorance, class and jingoism. The more cynical elements of political expedience, and the financial benefits of war for some, resonate through to today, a point made with a disarming smile at the end of the show.

The show is satire and therefore very funny. The songs from the trenches are funny, bitter and rude, and there are plenty of them to enjoy and sing along with if you wish.

The set with its imaginative lighting and sound effects is perfect. It’s a show that should be revived frequently because its eloquence is unsurpassed.

Jo Bayne