Fighting Bradfords Gala Durham

A cast of talented North East professional actors will take to the stage next month to re-create one of the region’s most moving real-life stories from the First World War.

The Fighting Bradfords runs from 8-17 September and will tell the story of the most celebrated brothers in military history; the Bradford boys from Witton Park. All four brothers served during World War One - only one of them, Thomas, came home - all were hailed heroes.

Thomas was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his gallantry during the second Battle of Ypres, from which he was one of only 20 surviving men. George was awarded a posthumous VC for his ‘absolute self-sacrifice’ after he was killed as he leapt into enemy fire in order to anchor his ship during high seas, enabling his crew to escape. James was awarded the Military Cross for gallantly leading his men into an enemy trench, personally killing three Germans, capturing many prisoners and taking out two machine guns. The youngest brother, Roland was awarded the Victoria Cross for his ‘conspicuous bravery and good leadership’ and was promoted to Brigadier-General aged 25, the youngest in British Army history.

Influenced by a domineering father and artistic mother, the boys’ childhood was filled with imaginative role playing and intensely competitive sport. They were bare-knuckle boxers, lovers of poetry and accomplished musicians, and The Fighting Bradfords  will explore what drove the family to become heroes.

Written by Tyneside-based playwright Carina Rodney (The Big Marrow, Canned and Pub Quiz) and under the direction of Psyche Stott (Blue Remembered Hills and Pub Quiz), The Fighting Bradfords draws on first-hand accounts, correspondence and family anecdotes to tell the story of this highly decorated family of First World War soldiers.

The Fighting Bradfords runs from 8- 17 September at The Gala Theatre, Durham City.

Tickets are from £12 - £15 and are available by contacting 03000 266 600, visiting Gala in person or online at www.galadurham.co.uk

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The Gala Theatre

The Gala Theatre is a superb arts venue in the heart of Durham City with 500 seat theatre, 2 cinema screens and a stylish cafe bar.

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