A new play honouring the sacrifice made by local heroes at the Battle of the Somme is to make its debut at Salford Arts Theatre as part of the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival.
From Heaven to Hell focuses on the heroic contribution made by the 1st Salford Pals regiment, and opens on 1st July, exactly 101 years to the day, after the offensive began.
The play is dedicated to the 24 officers and 650 men from the 1st Salford Pals who fought in the horrific battle where more than one million men were wounded or killed. In the first thirty minutes alone, 21 officers and 449 men from the Salford Pals had become casualties.
From Heaven to Hell is a fictional account of a group of friends from Salford during the First World War. It follows the joys and sorrows of their lives against a backdrop of conflict and violence.
Danny Clifford, making his writing debut with the play says: "I am fascinated and moved by the level of bravery and loyalty shown by the people of Salford during the First World War and wanted to find my own way to pay tribute to them and bring their story to a new generation
"From a population of just 250,000, Salford raised four battalions, which was more than many larger cities" he adds "It's a contribution that should never be forgotten."
The play not only focuses on the horror of the battlefield but also on those who were left at home waiting for news. Despite the subject matter, it isn't completely dark and leaves plenty of scope for macabre comedic touches.
"Friendship was at the very centre of the Salford Pals and is something I've explored very closely in the play" Danny explains "It's important to capture the essence of the people I'm writing about; their resilience, their humour, their hopes and fears for the future. I really hope I've done them justice."
Between 1914 and 1918, over 15,000 local men served with the Salford Pals. From Heaven to Hell skilfully recreates the time and highlights the lives of those affected by a brutal and historically momentous effort.
From Heaven To Hell
Written by Danny Clifford and Directed by Sue Jenkins
Saturday 1st- Monday 3rd July
Salford Arts Theatre £8
Further details at www.salfordartstheatre.com or www.greatermanchesterfringe.co.uk
Danny is also raising money for the Royal British Legion having been inspired by veterans he met while researching his play. You can donate at www.justgiving.com/fromheaventohell
Words by Ian Leslie
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