by Steve Darlow
based on the book Geprüft by Frances Zagni
directed by Jo Emery
produced by Fighting High Productions

★★★★ “Strong, sure footed performances from the actors. The characters are played with style along with effective use of verbatim material deftly assembled into dialogue by subtle editing. The company moved together with balletic grace.” (Laura Thomas)
The Valentine Letters is an enthralling new play based upon the Second World War correspondence between Royal Air Force airman and Prisoner of War John Valentine and his wife Ursula.
These letters provide an unprecedented insight in to how two people struggle to find solace and keep their hopes and love alive despite the anxieties of John’s dangerous operational life, his three years behind barbed wire, and Ursula’s endeavours raising a newborn under the constant threat of aerial attack.
The Valentine Letters is a testament to the pain of separation, isolation, coping, and change, interspersed with humorous and heartwarming moments. A remarkable account of the effect of the Second World War on the lives of a young married couple and their generation.

Running time: One hour forty five minutes, including a fifteen minute interval.

Audience feedback from the previous showing of The Valentine Letters at the Maltings Theatre, St Albans, November 2023.

“A super, moving evening.”

“A fantastic show thank you so much – beautifully acted – compassionate, touching and insightful, alongside humour, reality and love.”

“Saw this today – absolutely brilliant! My dad was in Bomber Command and a POW. I also have some of the letters my dad wrote to my mum. This was beautifully done. I cried at the end.”

“Fantastic show. Very moving and amazing that the family managed to retain the letters, a wonderful insight into how many families must have ‘got by’ during the time.”

“I was gripped from start to finish.”

“Went to see the show today. Its authenticity is beyond reproach, direct from pen to paper to wonderfully evocative stage narrative. A must see.”

“Really first rate performances.”

This is the latest play from Steve Darlow, whose most recent work includes the acclaimed Their Finest Hour.

‘Darlow is to be applauded… beautifully represents the period.’ ★★★★★ North West End UK

Tags: fightinghigh, group, professional, summer2024, ThePlace