Powerful tale hits the stage

Adapted for the stage by Angus Jackson, it can be seen at the venue from March 17-21 and is recommended for those aged 11 and over.

The book, which is a KS3 level school text for 11 - 14 year olds, is an emotive tale of an unlikely friendship between two innocent boys.

Set during World War II, the story is seen through the eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration camp, whose forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence has startling and devastating consequences.

John Boyne’s 2006 novel has sold millions of copies around and has appeared on many bestseller lists including the New York Times where it reached number 1.

It was made into a Miramax feature film, directed by Marj Herman (Brassed Off) which was released in 2008.

This play will be produced by The Children’s Touring Partnership, which is led by independent producer Fiery Angel, Chichester Festival Theatre and a consortium of major regional theatres.

The Partnership have previously toured Goodnight Mister Tom (which won the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family) and Swallows and Amazons.

There will be an extensive education programme attached to this production and there are additional matinee performances in all venues to accommodate school parties.

Edward Snape for the Children’s Touring Partnership commented: “The Children’s Touring Partnership aims to produce and tour innovative, ambitious and engaging large scale theatrical productions for children and families. After two years of development we are very excited by this new commission”.

Born in Dublin, John Boyne has published nine novels for adults, including his most recent, A History of Loneliness (2014). As well as The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, John has written three other novels for younger readers: Noah Barleywater Runs Away (2010), The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket (2012) and Stay Where You Are And Then Leave (2013).

Tickets to see The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas are available by calling the box office at the venue on 0115 9895555. or by going to www.trch.co.uk