Theatre review: “Journey’s End” at the Octagon Theatre, Bolton

Excited by the prospect of adventure and inspired by a determination to serve his country, 18-year-old Second Lieutenant Raleigh has arrived in the trenches. He is thrilled to find himself under the command of Captain Stanhope - his boyhood hero and a close family friend. But after three years commanding his company Stanhope is a changed man.

A snapshot that is both powerful and poignant, this drama in the dugout sees young men fighting their own personal battles as they cope as best they can with the war that engulfs them.

The play was written by R.C. Sherriff and is based on the memories of men he knew and fought alongside. It’s a journey of self-discovery, a journey into the unknown, a journey of sacrifice on an unimaginable scale.

It would be unfair to single out any of the cast for special praise as each of them handles his role superbly, resulting in a gripping and absorbing production.

It runs until 4th October and tickets are available on 01204-520661.