Our Boys

Jonathan Guy Lewis (Politics and Society 1985)

West End revival for prize-winning play

Two decades ago it won an award for best new play – now Our Boys, created by Exeter alumnus Jonathan Guy Lewis, has been revived for a run in London’s West End.

Directed by David Grindley, this latest production is on at the Duchess Theatre in London’s theatre heartland until December 15.

The latest version stars actors Lawrence Fox (Lewis, Gosford Park) and Arthur Darvill (Dr Who) as members of a group of five army squaddies on a hospital ward recovering from a range of injuries incurred in the line of duty, from bullet wounds to frostbite. The arrival of a new officer, a dangerous situation and an act of betrayal lead to conflicts among the group. The play was based on Jonathan’s own army experiences.

Our Boys was first performed in the capital in May 1993, subsequently revived in a production at the former Derby Playhouse (now Derby Theatre) and then transferred to the Donmar Warehouse in 1995. It also won the Best Fringe Play award in the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Awards and has been performed at various fringe theatres since.

Jonathan said: “I’m delighted David Grindley has chosen Our Boys for his latest production and has assembled such a talented cast and crew. It’s very nearly twenty years since the first production and in the intervening years it’s been staged by professional and amateur groups alike. I think that’s because the themes of friendship, loyalty and betrayal are universal and timeless.

“I’m honoured it’s been so enduring and hope it continues to be performed in the years to come.”

As well as a career as an accomplished playwright Jonathan (Politics and Society 1985), is an experienced actor of stage and screen, best recognised for his roles in popular television dramas Soldier, Soldier, London’s Burning and Holby City.

Date: 25 October 2012