ON July 1 1916, The (Ulster) Division took part in one of the bloodiest battles in history.
The Battle of The Somme took place a hundred years ago, yet we can never (should never) forget the extraordinary circumstances of World War 1 - the war to end all wars.
One man has written a truly, moving and powerful play that is more than just a literary visit to the horrors of the trenches.
Observe The Sons Of Ulster Marching Towards The Somme, currently on at the Liverpool Playhouse, is a stunning piece of writing - poetic and yet punchy.
Dialogue that resonates.
Donal Gallery in scene from the play. Picture: Johan Persson
It looks at love, hate, loyalty, religion and life itself.
This is a tale of eight volunteers and their camaraderie - strained at first in the barren fields of Flanders.
Tempers flare violence breaks out.
A war within a war.
I have been to the site of the Somme and to this day it has left a lasting image on me.
I didn't think modern playwrights could capture what the war poets such as Wilfred Owen conveyed.
But thanks to Mr McGuiness, who wrote this play in 1985, you sit up and think and think again about so many issues that are relevant today.
Cast of 'Observe The Sons Of Ulster Marching Towards The Somme'. Picture: Johan Persson
This modern classic is a major co-production with Abbey Theatre, Citizens Theatre and Headlong.
It is a gripping, slick, funny, poignant piece of work.
I went to a 5.30pm performance.
The play finished at 8pm.
I fully support the forward looking Playhouse's vision in offering such evening shows.
More please.
There's something magical about seeing a play straight after work!
As for this classic play we are greeted by Old Kenneth Pyper - a sculptor who is haunted by the ghosts of his past.
We are transported back in flashback style to the trenches.
We meet the volunteers one by one.
All the cast deserve a medal so I shall mention each for outstanding service.
Charismatic Donal Gallery (young Pyper); philisophical David Craig (Ryan Donaldson); insecure John Millen (Larla McGowan); nervous William Moore (Chris McCurry); preacher turned patriotic soldier Christopher Roulston (Marcus,Lamb); half Catholic Martin Crawford (Jonny Holden); Belfast bully (George Anderson) and deluded drummer Nat Mcllwaine.
Each individual character is wonderfully fleshed out as they argue, fight and laugh together.
They even play football.
The fight sequences are brutally realistic.
We hear about the Battle of the Boyne, the Easter uprising and the bitter war between Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland - the 'Troubles' between Catholics and Protestants.
Director Jeremy Herrin has a marvellous company to work notably with brilliant set designer Ciaran Bagnall, lighting designer Paul Keogan and composer Stephen Warbeck who all contribute their skills to ensure this is an unmissable theatrical experience and one that will remain with me for a long time to come.
History brought to life through stunning voices and passionate performances.
A faultless production.
Five Stars
It's on at the Liverpool Playhouse until Saturday, June 25.
Tickets are from the box office on 0151 709 4776.
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