A COMMUNITY play exploring heartfelt stories from the First World War through the eyes of a telegram messenger will make several stops in Gwent next month.

More than 100 people have taken part in the The Last Post project with participants aged from five to 93.

The play looks at the war from the viewpoint of the people left at home with stories seen through the eyes of Gwilym, a telegram messenger boy.

In October, the play – produced by arts organisation Head4Arts – will make a stop at four dates in South Wales including Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly county borough, Torfaen and Merthyr Tydfil.

The shows also follow a promotion campaign this year which saw a van transformed into a replica First World War bunker making stops at several Gwent towns.

The Last Post’s artistic director, Stuart Bawler, said: “The logistics of doing one play across four valleys are huge.

“We’ve solved it by having a strong central story and a patchwork of scenes, films and songs.

“This means each performance will be unique to that venue.”

Musical director, Alison Shone, added this ranges from knitting groups in Llanhilleth, Merthyr Tydfil and Dowlais, Blaenau Gwent, sitting on stage knitting mufflers accompanied by choirs.

One choir involved is Strike a Chord - a group set up to help people who have experienced a stroke.

Communities involved have also been rehearsing for six months and undertaken research which has “shaped the play”.

The play will visit The Met in Abertillery on October 5, the Congress Theatre in Cwmbran on October 10 and the Blackwood Miners’ Institute on October 30. All shows are at 7.30pm.

Visitors are invited to dress up in period costume and prizes will be offered for the best outfits. Tickets are £5, with £4 concession and £15 for a family ticket.

Head4Arts is funded by Arts Council of Wales and is managed by a partnership of the four local authorities involved and their devolved arts and leisure trusts. Some of the arts group’s aims include “embedding creative arts skills into communities” and holding activities that celebrate Welsh heritage, culture and language.

Call 01495 357816 or email info@head4arts.org.uk for more information on the events.