The Window
As we commemorate the 100 year anniversary of World War 1 Armistice Day the Herbert is proud to present a poignant new play by Coventry actor and writer Paul Nolan.
As Paul investigated his own family tree, one story really stood out, that of his Great Uncle, James O’Neil, born at the end of the 19th Century to a poor Coventry Family who must survive when their father was admitted to the notorious Hatton Asylum just before James is born.
There are fast changes in this growing industrial city and James hungers for adventure, to do his bit, and make the family proud. News on the August Bank Holiday of 1914 will shake the O'Neil home. James witnesses a landmark British Offensive with the 15th Durham Light Infantry which will change ground warfare as we know it.
This poignant play describes both the horrors of the battlefield and the struggles on the home front through the voices of James and his sister. A compelling and beautifully constructed First World War drama, of a young Coventry soldier, and his harrowing experiences of one of the British Army’s most notoriously unsuccessful and bloody offensives.
Projected images, bespoke soundscapes, effective lighting make this an intimate, immersive storytelling experience.
£11 + booking fee Adult
£7 + booking fee Child
Suitable for ages 8+
‘… this is certainly not just “another play about World War 1”. It’s far more intimate.’ Love Midlands Theatre
‘… Some of the best theatre this reviewer has seen from a production of any size in some time… poignant and powerful’ Reviews Hub
Dates & Times
Thursday 8 November
Doors 7.30pm, performance 8.00pm
Friday 9 November
Doors 7.30pm, performance 8.00pm
Saturday 10 November
Doors 2.00pm, performance 2.30pm matinee
Doors 7.30pm, performance 8.00pm
Information for Schools
Dedicated performances for schools are available on Thursday 8th and Friday 9th November 1pm-2.30pm. Recommended for year 6 upwards. Cost £7 per pupil, minimum group sizes apply.
A post-performance talk is available on request. There is also opportunity to view the new WWI themed displays in the Art since 1900 Gallery, please request this as part of your itinerary when booking.