The production works in collaboration with Swansea Museum to provide a day of educational activities for years 5&6. The project has been running for 11 years and for the 100+ schools involved, has become an integral part of the Autumn term.
On the night of the 10th – 11th March 1945, 67 German Prisoners of War tunneled to freedom from Camp 198 in Bridgend. It was the biggest escape attempt made by German POWs in Great Britain during WWII. Written by Geinor Styles, the Artistic Director of Theatr na n’Óg, the story focus’s on the lives of four children living in Bridgend.
The whole community takes part in the hunt for the prisoners including the four children who, armed with sticks, catapults and knitting needles set about capturing the Gerries! But their excitement is short lived however, when they discover a much darker secret! A story of friendship, fear and hidden secrets, that ignites the imagination and delights children and teachers alike.
The show is just one part of the day as the children are then provided with an opportunity to learn about the facts behind the play, with activities such as a giant metallic map, where they can plot the route of the POW’s on, a replica model of the prison camp and plenty more, all set in a dedicated space in the Museum itself. The project also runs for three weeks in Welsh, with the same cast performing. It is the longest running children’s theatre show in Wales, with three months of performances and over 100 shows.
Geinor Styles, Artistic Director commented:
“This is the only project of its kind in Wales and presents a unique opportunity for both students and teachers to learn in an exciting and original atmosphere.”
Theatre na nÓg works closely with a Professional Reference Group that consists of Head-teachers and staff from a number of the schools involved. They give feedback and suggestions ever year to guarantee a high quality day that delvers the best for the children involved. St Joseph’s Primary School praised the last production of Halt! Who Goes There? saying, “I don’t know how you manage to improve on perfection but you do!”
After the success of last years The Ghost of Morfa Colliery, which showed to over 5000 children in over 100 different schools, this year’s show promises to be another hit.
Halt! Who Goes There? is on at the Dylan Thomas Theatre, Swansea, from 8 September – 3 December. There are three evening performances, which are on the 24 September, 22 October and 12 November (Welsh). For more information contact Rachel Lloyd at [email protected] / 01639 641711 or go to www.theatr-nanog.co.uk
Theatr na nog is supported by Arts Council of Wales.
