Hi Everyone,

Recently I went to go and see ‘Pieces of String’ at The Mercury Theatre in Colchester!

‘Pieces of String’ tells the story of a man, who is called up to the British Army in World War II leaving behind his wife and family home. Whilst n the trenches he meets a fellow soldier, and they build a relationship together. The story then moves on to present day, where on the day of the man’s funeral his family has the terrible task of sorting out his possessions and home.

It’s a story which is fun, but at the heart of it has a really heartbreaking story. The story at its core discusses the subject of Gay relationships both in the past and modern day. Both the views in 1940’s Britain and today. This is a subject matter, which I have never seen talk in a musical, as I believe that most Play Writers are concerned about what the subject will have on the audience.

Description: Ella Dunlop (Gemma) & Harry (Gary Wood) sitting on boxes reading a letter and looking at old photos

Photo By Mercury Theatre & Robert Workman

What I think the writer Gus Gowland as come up with here is extraordinary and excellent! More writers of both stage and screen should not be afraid of what the audience might think and just write the play as they believe it to be. This show should be used as an example to show people you can write using any subject matter and it can work. ‘Piece’s of String’ is a musical which is excellent and I strongly believe should have a place in London’s West End! This is by far one of the best shows I have ever seen, and needs to be taken further, not just to stay in local but way beyond.

I’m not sure I can put into words really how much I loved this show, I know it’s early in the year and I have other shows to see this year, but I can see this being the best show I’ve seen this year by a mile! Absolutely wonderful!   

Description: Me & Gus Gowland after the show, smiling at the camera!

People With A Visual Impairment: You will have no problem seeing this show at all. There is one use of flashing lights but it is over in a flash literally. I feel you can sit six rows back be fine.

People With A No Vision: I think Audio Description is a good choice here, but saying that if you can’t get the Audio Description I think your be fine. There’s enough dialogue to understand the story, if necessary take a friend with you to help describe sections.

Regardless of what I put in the ratings here, please everyone go and see this show now because when it goes to the West End, you might struggle to get tickets! You can find links to The Mercury Theatre website by clicking HERE!

Until Next Time!

The VI Critic