Private Peaceful

The First World War can be dangerous subject matter; the intense pressure to focus solely upon the horrific is so intense that characterisation frequently takes a back seat. This adaptation of Michael Morpurgo's book for children focuses instead on the sole storyteller, a young soldier named Tommo Peaceful, and the horror of the conflict is all the more harrowing for it.

Alexander Campbell never lets the pace drop as he describes his rural West Country upbringing, moving on to the terrifying world of trenches and dugouts. Throughout, he retains his childish demeanor, making one aware of just what it would be like as 16-year-old on the front line. Campbell throws himself wholeheartedly into the performance and it pays off mightily, with no hearts left unbroken at the play's conclusion.

Gentle humour and wonder are present throughout, from Tommo's young love for a girl at school to his constant admiration for his older brother Charlie. These light touches illuminate Tommo's naïve view of the world, creating a touching and all-engrossing story. This may be an adaptation of a children's book, but this is a story about soldiers who were barely more than children themselves; it pulls no punches while being utterly comprehensible and suitable for all.