'Journey's End'

[David T]

A teacher friend is looking for a copy of R. C. Sherriff's play 'Journey's End', which was broadcast about 10-15 years ago, probably by the BBC. To the best of our knowledge the broadcast wasn't issued on video or DVD, so we're hoping that a 'Pal' might have a copy. If we're wrong about this, guidance as to where we can get the video / DVD would be appreciated, otherwise, hopefully, someone has a copy who's able & willing to help.

David T.

[HERITAGE PLUS]

TV adapations were broadcast in 1983 and 1988. A black and white film was made in 1930.

For cast lists of all three see:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0792670/

Dave

[Dragon]

If all else fails, it might possibly be worth contacting Samuel French – the drama publisher – for any suggestions:

http://www.samuelfrench-london.co.uk/

or perusing the WWW Virtual Library Theatre and Drama

http://vl-theatre.com/

Perhaps the school's Head of Drama or Performing Arts might have some thoughts on where a recorded performance might be obtained. The recent national touring production provided a teachers' resource package. (I can't help with one, I'm not a teacher.)

Gwyn

[David T]

Thanks, Gwyn & Dave... I'll pass your constructive suggestions on.

David T.

[6th Shropshires]

Hi David

I have a copy, will check it out to see if its still ok (I have not watched it for years), if it is ok I will PM you.

Annette

[gporta]

For me, the best idea would be to get a copy of the 1930 film version (copies pop on ebay from time to time). The "pro" points are:

1) Stanhope was played by Colin Clive, the same actor who had played him on stage, and was considered by R.C. Sherriffs himself to be ·"the definitive Stanhope".

2) The director was James Whale, who had directed the stage version, from its presentation on an amateur stage to its West End premiére. Whale was responsible also of the decors, so I believe that any further versions/stagings of the play must owe a lot to his original imprint. James Whale had served in WW1 as an officer and became a prisoner of war. In the Camp where he was, he'd be involved in the production of plays staged by the prisoners.

3) The film was made when the Great War was still a recent event (many of the participants had grown up/lived through and been involved in it), and IMHO, this gives it a flavour that later productions lack.

If your students are of the type who ain't allergic to black and white, I'd go for it.

Gloria

[David T]

Gloria,

Thanks... another good & sensible idea.

David T.

[gporta]

Well... The "luxury" option would be to compare, say, the 1930 film (as a becoming memento of the original production) and then have a filmed/videorecorded version of a more recent production: i think that the different approaches to a same play would make for interesting comparisons and reflections over how the perception of war changes through time.

Gloria