REVIEW: The Wipers Times

The chance find of an old printing press, coupled with a serjeant who was in printing during his civilian life, led to the production of a satirical magazine, full of trench humour, pastiche and the ubiquitous poetry. All of this takes place under the heavy shelling from the German trenches and the ever-looming threat of the ‘Big Push’.

In spite of this, and in line with the content of the Wipers Times, the play is packed full of fun and humour from start to finish. The writing of the play makes the subject matter seem fresh so even though it is set 100 years ago, the play has an allegorical feel. 

The Arts Theatre is a great setting for the piece (although space is limited so be first in the queue for the bar or the loo or face a long wait). Unfussy, good sightlines and an intimate feel, the theatre really is a gem in the West End, able to support smaller, touring productions. The company all work well together, with a good rapport and chemistry that is important for comedy but also helps to emphasise the camaraderie of soldiers at the front. 

While all should be commended for their roles in bringing the production to the stage, the applause should be reserved for Captain Roberts and his unit. Men who went through the worst horrors mankind has ever known, but found comedy and used it to alleviate the situation. Through a mixture of lampoon, parody and good old-fashioned taking the piss, the legacy left to us by these soldiers, is one for all time.