‘Why go where you’re not wanted?’ So asks a gay theatre maker, who puts down the bottle to pick up a gun, recklessly joining the British Army whilst the LGBT+ ban was still callously enforced.
In this unique solo comedy-drama, inspired by his own life, Jon Hague, veteran of multiple deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland, lifts the curtain on the unexpected consequences, when a sober thespian marches unscripted to war.
Exploring the often ludicrous, always emotive conflict of cultures, personalities and ideologies, At War with Myself questions the attractions of military life, the impact of recovery and how everyone can construct their own identities and narratives.
This show is a funny, moving and provocative revelation, grounded in a unique life, challenging prevailing attitudes on LGBT+ identity, addiction, victimhood, and life in the Army.
- Director: Lisa Millar
- Designer: Damian Stanton
- Sound designer / Composer: Isa Suarez
- Dramaturg: Chris Campbell (former Royal Court Literary Manager)
BACKGROUND: Although gay relationships were partially decriminalised in 1967 (in England & Wales), the ban on LGBT+ personnel serving in UK forces was only lifted in 2000, following a prolonged battle through to the European Court of Human Rights (see here). In 2024, affected veterans still await compensation.
Upcoming Dates
SWAN STUDIO, WORCESTER Sat 22 Mar 25 (7.45pm) Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester WR1 3ED
TICKETS £15 (here)
COLCHESTER FRINGE Fri 01 Nov 24 (7pm) | Sat 02 Nov 24 (4pm) Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel St North, Colchester, CO2 7AT
TICKETS £8 (here)
CAMDEN FRINGE Aug 24 – Mon 05, Mon 12, Tue 13, Mon 19, Tue 20 (9pm) Etcetera Theatre, (above The Oxford Arms), 265 Camden High St, London, NW1 7BU
TICKETS £16/14 (here)
PENGE (PREVIEWS) Mon 17 Jun – Wed 19 Jun 24 (8pm) The Bridge House Theatre, 2 High St, Penge, SE20 8PZ
TICKETS £16/14 (here)
The development of At War with Myself has been generously funded by Arts Council England.
