Coinciding with the centenary anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, Red Ladder Theatre Company, Carriageworks Theatre and Leeds Civic Arts Guild present new play Leeds Lads, with words and music by Anthony Clavane and Nick Stimson

A young woman’s journey into Leeds’ secret, inspiring past

It’s 2016. Tara stands on the steps of Leeds Town Hall on the day the city commemorates the Leeds Pals at the Battle of the Somme. She holds in her hand her great grandfather’s medal for bravery. Why should Tara care about the past when the present seems so bleak?

Celebrate Tara’s story as she discovers the sacrifice of her forefathers and how these have moulded the community that surrounds her today.

Breathing life into the characters of Leeds’s past, this vibrant production transports you from the turmoil and tensions of war, to the rich and multi-cultural city we know today. Leeds Lads is a new play about the people of Leeds past and present – their fears, their love and their friendships, performed by the people of Leeds today for the people of Leeds.

A community cast of 40 local performers and musicians will be joined by Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain international Rugby League player Jamie Jones-Buchanan for his debut appearance on stage.

Jamie talks about rehearsals so far >>

Video > A sneak peak at some of our first few rehearsals >>

Video > Jamie Jones-Buchanan on getting out of his comfort zone>>

 Video > Leeds Lads cast at the Leeds Rhinos>> 

Open Rehearsals at Leeds Big Bookend Festival>>

Dates