‘The British Resistance in Wales’ is Abergavenny Museum’s latest exhibition. It is inspired by the film ‘Resistance’ which is based on the novel by Owen Sheers and is on general release from 25th November.
The exhibition tells the true story of the British Resistance movement during the Second World War. If the Nazi attack had been successful, auxiliary units were formed whose mission was to sabotage the Nazi advance through Britain. Their role was secret and even wives remained unaware of their husband’s role.
The novel and film are set in the Olchon Valley and imagine a past where the D-Day landings failed and Britain became occupied. It tells the story of the women left behind and the fine line between survival and collaboration.
Rachael Rogers, Curator, said “We felt the combination of a fascinating subject, brought to life by a local author and the pending film release made this the ideal time to stage an exhibition. We have been privileged to work with the families of those men who were part of the Resistance, who have generously lent us original artefacts”.
In order to stage the exhibition the museum has worked closely with the film producers and Owen Sheers. Exhibits include costume and art work from the film, alongside early drafts of the novel. In addition Coleshill Auxiliary Research Team produced a documentary about the auxiliary units, which can be seen in the exhibition along with extracts from the forthcoming film. For sale are works by Dan Llywelyn Hall, the resident artist on the film set.
On Monday 21st November, to celebrate the release of the film, we will be hosting a lunchtime event from 11.30 – 1.30. Join us for an opportunity to meet the author, director and members of the production team, enjoy wine and canapés, and view the exhibition. Tickets are £20 and include a voucher to see the film at Baker Street Cinema, Abergavenny when it is on general release (from 25th November). Email [email protected] if you would like an application form for tickets. Tickets will be sold on a first come basis.
The exhibition will run until 25th February 2012. The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 11-1 and 2-4.
Learn more about the Auxiliary Units in Wales here http://www.coleshillhouse.com/welsh-auxiliary-units-and-obs.php
