A War Of Two Halves Returns to Tynecastle

Following
its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe last year, and a second staging in the
lead-up to Armistice Day in November 2018, the emotion-charged A War Of Two
Halves returns to play at Tynecastle Park for the Edinburgh Fringe 2019.

The year is
1914. Edinburgh’s Heart of Midlothian Football Club have won 19 of 21 matches
and stand on the brink of becoming Scottish league champions. In a remarkable show
of comradeship and courage, 13 of their players volunteer to serve together in
McCrae’s Battalion destined to fight in France.

Written by
Paul Beeson & Tim Barrow, and featuring a cast of talented young Scottish
actors, A War of Two Halves, directed by Bruce Strachan, is an evocative and
dramatic journey through Tynecastle Park led by the players/soldiers in a
unique site-specific performance.

The
performance of A War of Two Halves last year was one of the most emotional I
have seen. Yes, I’m a Hearts supporter, but this remarkable story will bring a
lump to the throat of anyone, no matter what team you support – and even if you
have no interest in football. A supremely talented cast ensures there will be
no more powerful performances at the Edinburgh Fringe than this one.

Bruce
Strachan says “We are greatly honoured to be returning to Tynecastle Park
with the remarkable story of “the bravest team” that is absolutely synonymous
with Edinburgh and Heart of Midlothian Football Club. Hearts fans will know of
McCrae’s Battalion – here is another chance to really understand their story.
For a wider audience, the opportunity to see a behind-the-scenes view of a football
stadium in a dramatic retelling of historical events will be a truly unique
theatre experience.”   

Lianne
Parry, Head of Heritage, Heart of Midlothian Football Club says: “We are
delighted to welcome back ‘A War of Two Halves’ to Tynecastle Park this August,
following the incredible success of the show last year. Supporters, players and
staff all saw the show take on particular poignancy as it comes to life in the
very ground the team left in 1914, with action taking place throughout the
stadium. Sensitively told and beautifully arranged, this is a unique
performance that everyone should have the chance to experience.”

 A War of Two Halves plays at Tynecastle Park from Wednesday 7th August to Monday 26th August 2019, with numerous shows each day (not Sat 10th). The production is suitable for ages 12 and upwards. Fans of all football clubs are welcome.  Tickets here.