Deep Cut
05 Jun 2008
A new play based around the events surrounding the infamous Deepcut Army Barracks will make its world premiere at The Traverse Theatre as part of the 2008 Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Produced by the powerhouse for new writing in Wales, Sherman Cymru, Deep Cut is written by Philip Ralph using original source material and powerful first hand testimonies of those closest to Private Cheryl James, one of four young soldiers who died from gunshot wounds in unexplained circumstances between 1995 and 2002.
Although The Blake Review, an independent review of the deaths, concluded that Cheryl probably committed suicide, her family continue to fight for a full public inquiry to gain answers from the people responsible for their daughter’s care. Deep Cut is a bold and compelling account of Cheryl’s parents’ journey as they search for answers and grieve for their daughter.
Over the past two years, writer Philip Ralph has extensively researched and developed the play, holding many face to face interviews with the James’s and other professionals involved who hold varying views on the deaths and the way they were investigated. Public record documents such as The Blake Review, statements made by the Government and within the House of Commons, as well as the media, have also been used in creating the play.
The play will be directed by Mick Gordon, Artistic Director of On Theatre and previous Associate Director of the National Theatre.
Deep Cut is on at the Traverse Theatre from 31 July – 24 August. Deep Cut will also tour to Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold from 9 – 13 September before returning for a run at Sherman, Cardiff from 16 – 27 September.
