237 (West Bromwich) Squadron recently conducted a
cultural visit to Wolverhampton Civic Theatre to watch a touring production
titled “The two worlds of Charlie F”.
The event was organised by Captain Alan O’Brian and
saw representation from across all ranks in the Squadron. We met at the local public house which
enabled all to catch-up, socialize and sort tickets before entering the
theatre. I chose to attend with my
partner as did many others; we regularly attend the theatre watching both
amateur and professional productions throughout the UK and found this play as
enjoyable as any we’ve seen in the past.
The production was played mostly by ex-service men and
women injured in action with I believe some supporting actors. The story line/plot centred about the recovery
of injured personnel with several mentions of Selly Oak Hospital with some very
loud visual effects and a little humour thrown in. It covered physical and mental injuries with a
focus on the partners and families of the soldiers. I found the aspect from the families
interesting with the initial sense of hopelessness and despair, coupled with
the determination to get the soldier through their situation and on the road to
full recovery
There was a song in the production during act two
about flashbacks with the lyrics “not re-living it, living it” suggesting a
struggle with reality, that I’ll not forget any time soon. It helped to understand how these soldiers’
minds work during their recovery, opening my mind to aspects I would never
consider.
The act with the blueys (military mail system for
personnel deployed on operations overseas) was good for my wife (as I’m due to
deploy this year); seeing the joy at receiving mail, brought home how something
so mundane in the UK takes on a different aspect on tour. My wife has already been rallying my family to
this effect!
The production was well delivered, with some high
visual & audio impact that made the audience jump from their seats (me
included). The confidence of the actors
should be commended and they received a standing ovation at the end, which
appeared to embarrass them a little.
Although the production has been advertised nationally
on BBC radio 2 and possibly others I know none of our group were fully aware of
it. I would and have recommended it, as it’s
a story that should be heard. Non-military
people may struggle to grasp what it’s like to serve in the Army on tour, and
we must all find it difficult to relate to recovering soldiers, this production
covers both and does it very well.
For more information on teh play or to book tickets visit: http://www.charlie-f.com
