After captivating audiences across the globe, the celebrated stage adaptation of Private Peaceful is set to return for an extensive tour of the United Kingdom in Autumn 2026
. This production brings fresh energy to a timeless story, offering a powerful exploration of memory, family and the realities of the First World War. From the pen of Michael Morpurgo, the beloved author of War Horse, comes the unforgettable tale of Tommo Peaceful. As a young soldier stationed on the front lines, Tommo spends a sleepless night reflecting on the moments that defined his life. His journey takes the audience from the rural warmth of his childhood and the innocence of first love to the profound bond with his brother that sustains him through the hardships of the trenches.
This production is a one-person tour de force, adapted and directed by Simon Reade. Through a single actor, an entire world is conjured on stage, filled with diverse characters and evocative landscapes. The play remains a moving family drama while serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. Speaking about the upcoming tour, author Michael Morpurgo expressed his delight:
“I am continually moved by the way Private Peaceful finds new life on stage. This production captures the tenderness, humour and sorrow of Tommo’s story with great care and humanity. It is a piece of theatre that speaks gently, but stays with you for a very long time.”
Produced by Joshua Beaumont and Matthew Emeny for The Production Garden, in association with Exeter Northcott Theatre, the tour will visit a wide variety of venues: Exeter Northcott Theatre (8 to 10 September); Lichfield Garrick Theatre (11 to 13 September); Victoria Wood Theatre, Windermere (16 September); Lyceum, Edinburgh (17 to 19 September); London, venue to be announced (21 to 23 September); Harrogate Theatre (24 to 26 September); Theatre Royal Winchester (28 to 30 September); Hull Truck Theatre (1 to 3 October); Hall for Cornwall (6 to 7 October); Belgrade Theatre, Coventry (13 to 17 October); Malvern Theatres (21 to 25 October); Theatre Royal Wakefield (27 to 28 October); Worthing Connaught Theatre & Studio (11 November) and Curve, Leicester (17 to 19 November).
Whether you are a long-time fan of Morpurgo’s work or discovering Tommo’s story for the first time, this production promises an evening of theatre that is as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking.
