The first two performances of Far, Far From Ypres have set the Armistice centenary tour off to an incredible start, with a sell-out opening night at the Victoria Halls in Selkirk followed by an eager crowd at His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen, with both performances inspiring a standing ovation.
The commemorative tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the poignant show, which follows a young Scots soldier through the trenches as Scotland’s top folk talent bring to life dozens of iconic songs, poems and real local stories from World War One.
Below are some of the responses to the show so far…
“Emotions at an all time high! Amazing performance tonight in Selkirk by the group! Fab musicians each and every one and narration was very moving. A feeling anyone will never forget when thinking about the war. Very moving, thank you for an amazing experience” – Charley Green, Galashiels
“It was perhaps the male dominated chorus which brought the intent of the production solidly home. Decidedly appropriate and atmospheric of the era, Pack up your Troubles and When this Bloody War is Over vied with Tipperary and Armentieres to tug the heartstrings.
“All in all, this is a largely successful attempt to track and trace changing perceptions during the course of that First War to end all wars through the songs of the day…At the close of the night and indeed during the performance, not a few tears were shed.” – Duncan Harley, Aberdeenshire
“…stand out moments included Barbara Dickson’s moving Keep The Home Fires Burning and Stephen Quigg giving The Band Played Waltzing Matilda an overwhelming emotional punch.
“Some songs were less familiar but no less powerful – Dick Gaughan’s haunting Childhood’s End was spellbinding. This was held together with poetry, quotes and a litany of the horrific death toll, delivered with grace, power and, at times, humour by Iain Anderson.
“At the finale the 27 performers turned to applaud a poppy-bedecked photo of soldiers in a trench and the audience got to its feet. A standing ovation of applause and respect for those on stage and the men they honoured.” – Scott Begbie, Society Magazine, Aberdeen
If you haven’t had the chance to see the show yet or buy a ticket, the full list of tour dates are below:
FAR, FAR FROM YPRES 2018 COMMEMORATIVE TOUR DATES
Sunday 5th August: Victoria Halls, Selkirk
Thursday 9th August: His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen
Wednesday 29th August: Corran Halls, Oban
Friday 31st August: Aros Centre, Portree, Skye
Saturday 1st September: MacPhail Centre, Ullapool
Sunday 7th October: Whitehall Theatre, Dundee
Sunday 14th October: The Albert Halls, Stirling
Sunday 21st October: Eden Court Theatre, Inverness
Sunday 28th October: Theatre Royal, Dumfries
Sunday 11th November: Usher Hall, Edinburgh
For more information about tickets, visit the links above, check out our events page, or contact the relevant venue directly.
