Following its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe last year, and a second staging in the lead-up to Armistice Day in November 2018, the emotion-charged A War Of Two Halves returns to play at Tynecastle Park for the Edinburgh Fringe 2019.
The year is 1914. Edinburgh’s Heart of Midlothian Football Club have won 19 of 21 matches and stand on the brink of becoming Scottish league champions. In a remarkable show of comradeship and courage, 13 of their players volunteer to serve together in McCrae’s Battalion destined to fight in France.
Written by Paul Beeson & Tim Barrow, and featuring a cast of talented young Scottish actors, A War of Two Halves, directed by Bruce Strachan, is an evocative and dramatic journey through Tynecastle Park led by the players/soldiers in a unique site-specific performance.
The performance of A War of Two Halves last year was one of the most emotional I have seen. Yes, I’m a Hearts supporter, but this remarkable story will bring a lump to the throat of anyone, no matter what team you support – and even if you have no interest in football. A supremely talented cast ensures there will be no more powerful performances at the Edinburgh Fringe than this one.
Bruce Strachan says “We are greatly honoured to be returning to Tynecastle Park with the remarkable story of “the bravest team” that is absolutely synonymous with Edinburgh and Heart of Midlothian Football Club. Hearts fans will know of McCrae’s Battalion – here is another chance to really understand their story. For a wider audience, the opportunity to see a behind-the-scenes view of a football stadium in a dramatic retelling of historical events will be a truly unique theatre experience.”
Lianne Parry, Head of Heritage, Heart of Midlothian Football Club says: “We are delighted to welcome back ‘A War of Two Halves’ to Tynecastle Park this August, following the incredible success of the show last year. Supporters, players and staff all saw the show take on particular poignancy as it comes to life in the very ground the team left in 1914, with action taking place throughout the stadium. Sensitively told and beautifully arranged, this is a unique performance that everyone should have the chance to experience.”
A War of Two Halves plays at Tynecastle Park from Wednesday 7th August to Monday 26th August 2019, with numerous shows each day (not Sat 10th). The production is suitable for ages 12 and upwards. Fans of all football clubs are welcome. Tickets here.
Author of The Team for Me - 50 Years of Following Hearts. Runs Mind Generating Success, a successful therapy practice in Edinburgh. Contact me if you want rid of any unwanted habits. Twitter @Mike1874
