Trevor Nunn to Direct Faulk's BIRDSONG; Opens Sept. 18 in London

Sebastian Faulks's 1993 novel is one of Britain's best-loved books. It has sold more than two million copies in the United Kingdom and more than three million worldwide; and still regularly appears in the best-seller lists.

In September 2010 a stage version by Rachel Wagstaff, directed by Trevor Nunn, will open at the Comedy Theatre, London running until January 2011. This will be the first stage production of one of Faulks's works and has been developed by the playwright Rachel Wagstaff whose previous work has included The Soldier and Only The Brave. Wagstaff is a participant of Old Vic New Voices and her work has been performed at the annual 24 Hour Plays. She has previously adapted Faulks's The Girl at Lion d'Or for BBC Radio 4.

The play tells the story of one man's journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War:

While staying as the guest of a factory owner in pre-First World War France, Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate affair with Isabelle, the wife of his host. The affair changes them both for ever. A few years later Stephen finds himself back in the same part of France, but this time as a soldier at the Battle of the Somme, the bloodiest encounter in British military history. As his men die around him, Stephen turns to his enduring love for Isabelle for the strength to continue and to save something for future generations.

For the first time, this beautiful and terrible story about love, courage and the endurance of the human spirit is brought to the stage in a version by Rachel Wagstaff.

The world premiere of this production is directed by Trevor Nunn.

Casting will be announced soon.

www.birdsongtheplay.co.uk