THE DREAMERS to Receive London Premiere at St James Theatre
By: Tyler Peterson Mar. 31, 2015
In the year that commemorates 100 years since the Battle of Gallipoli, Runner Bean Productions presents The Dreamers, which will receive its London debut at the St James Theatre from June 30 - July 11, with press night on 1 July 2015.
With original words and music by James Beeny and Gina Georgio, this new musical tells the true story of war hero Captain David 'Reggie' Salomons who led his regiment Third Field Company to Gallipoli in 1915.
This unique piece of theatre features a 6-piece contemporary band, 'Virgin Soldiers', a cast of 20 young men and women and on-screen narration from Amanda Redman, Christopher Beeny, Sir Tim Rice and others.
Set during 1914-15, The Dreamers sees the outbreak of the First World War through the eyes of the soldiers and the families they left behind. As Captain Salomons prepares his men for battle, one soldier Jack Hastings grows jealous of his popularity and position, and, unsettled by the prospect of what lies ahead of them, tries to stir trouble amongst the men. A 12-year-old boy is desperate to join the army, not wanting to be left out of the great 'adventure'. Everyday women become nurses and factory-workers. The War Cabinet is forced to make impossible decisions.
This emotional tale of courage and heroism brought audiences of all ages to their feet and moved many to tears when it premiered at The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, in October 2014.
Anna Whitworth, great-niece of Captain Salomons said of the project: "I was astonished to see that a musical had been written about Reggie, especially as so few people have heard of him. I am delighted to see his story celebrated in this way and I hope he, and so many others, will always be remembered".
Lady Lucy French, Director of Development at the St James Theatre and Trustee of commemorative charity Never Such Innocence commented: "This is exactly what the centenary should be about; young people engaging, getting involved and playing their part. This music captures the essence of commemoration across the generations."
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