The world premiere of Jack Thorne’s When Winston Went to War with the Wireless will run at the Donmar Warehouse from 2 June until 27 July.
The play follows the story of the May 1926 General Strike when printing presses shit down, and the only sources of news were the government’s British Gazette, edited by Churchill, and the fledglingBritish Broadcasting Company – and we are confronted with a battle for control of the news, and who gets to define the truth.
Ahead of the run we’ve spoken with Shubham Saraf who plays Peter Eckersley to find out more about the show.
For those who may not be familiar with your previous work, could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Shubham Saraf, I went to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, and have been lucky enough to work in various theatres across London, as well as bits on television and film. I’m also a certified clown from Ecole Phillippe Gaulier.
This summer you will be part of the team debuting When Winston Went to War with the Wireless. How does it feel to be part of this exciting premier?
I’m thrilled. It’s a little dream come true. To be part of the creation of a piece of work that feels so vital and on the pulse of our collective moment. It’s as good as it gets really – to get to make work that really means something right now. Not to mention the absolute joy it’s been to work with this heart melting cast and team. More please.
What can audiences expect from the show?
Entertained. Provoked. Hopefully moved.
In the show you will be playing Peter Eckersley. When preparing to take on such an iconic character, what would you say is important to consider?
For me the most important thing is to be lead by Jack’s text. It’s a phenomenal piece of writing. So it’s important that all my choices contribute to telling the story that we’re telling. It’s through that lens I focus on Peter.
What is your favourite thing about this character, and the show as a whole?
My favourite thing about Peter is that he cares. And he truly tries to make a difference. That’s the same for the show. It lives and breathes what’s happening in our country today.
The show will run as part of The Donmar’s 30th anniversary celebrations, and the theatre will be providing £10 tickets for audiences aged under 30 to mark the milestone.
Why do you think initiatives like this are so fundamental for the future of the arts industry?
I believe theatre should reflect the time and form we live in. And it’s initiatives like these that are vital in achieving that. Otherwise the art form will suffocate in its own bubble and will speak to no one!
If someone was unsure on whether or not to come see When Winston Went to War with the Wireless, what would you say to convince them?
Come for a love letter to the BBC. For every worker striking today. Come watch us fiddle with mics and foley and hopefully achieve a little stroke of magic.
When Winston Went to War with the Wireless will run at the Donmar from 2 June – 29 July 2023. For more information or to book your tickets click here or call the box office on 020 3282 3808.
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