Following a preview of emotional war epic Journey’s End, Alison Norton says it’s one not to miss.

Based on R C Sherriff’s personal experiences, First World War drama Journey’s End literally blasts its way into the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday until next Saturday (October 4-8, 2011).

For over 80 years this play has offered audiences the opportunity to experience the sheer terror, the mindless killing and appalling conditions endured by these brave heroes, as seen through the eyes of a group of officers on the front line in March 1918.

It is one of the most atmospheric, gripping theatrical productions you are likely to encounter.

It will shock you, remind you of the fragility of life and fill you with anger and grief for those who died in this terrible, seemingly pointless conflict.

But don’t be put off – this is not an anti-war play, it was written as a memorial piece to all those who lost their lives.

Touching every aspect of the men’s experiences from the mundane routines of eating and sleeping, to the love for their families, to danger and horrific injuries, there is no doubt that David Grindley’s revival of this exceptional play will leave you tearful, regretful and saddened.

However, there is still room for humour and good-natured banter between the men as they strive to survive before they meet their inevitable fate.

Graham Butler, aged 25, who was born in Bridgnorth, plays the role of Raleigh, an 18-year-old officer, straight from public school who cannot wait to experience the excitement and exhilaration of combat first hand.

“If you are even slightly cynical about war, the research that goes into a play like this then Journey’s End completely banishes that thought,” said Graham.

“That said, I still don’t truly understand what this war was really about.

“The passion with which Sherriff wrote this piece is quite over-whelming.

“We were the first production to have access to his memoirs of the war, which helped immensely. He didn’t invent anything, the characters literally walked on to the page.”

Playing the role has given Graham a new-found respect for military personnel serving today. The characters bond together, they are a family unit and as a cast we have done much the same. It is a very empowering feeling,” said Graham.

The whole piece is incredibly moving and emotional.

There are laughs too as the men go about everyday life, avoiding the obvious conversation of the conflict, but you never lose that tense knot in the pit of your stomach as you dread the final outcome.

The finale is technically stunning and the end of this journey is completely unmissable.

I recently saw this wonderful production in London, prior to it going on tour around the country and the Bridgnorth-born star of the show, Graham Butler, has let me in on a little secret – his whole family from Telford is coming to see the play when it arrives in Wolverhampton.

He added: “My family have booked about 90 seats on one night for the Grand in Wolverhampton.”

Graham’s performance as the young officer, Raleigh is excellent.

Tickets range from £6.50 to £22.50. Click here for ticket details or call  the Grand Theatre box office on 01902 429212.

Click here to watch our video about Journey’s End