An actor and writer from Alderley Edge has penned his first play, honouring heroes of the First World War and is teaming up with local actress and director, Sue Jenkins to debut it later this year.
Danny Clifford wrote 'From Heaven to Hell' to honour the sacrifice made by northern battalions during the Battle of the Somme, where more than one million men were killed or injured. The play marks a career change for Danny, who also runs his own building company.
The play will feature as part of the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival and opens on July 1, marking 101 years to the day that the Somme Offensive began.
From Heaven to Hell is a fictional account of a group of friends from Salford during the First World War, following the joys and sorrows of their lives against a backdrop of conflict and violence.
Danny Clifford, said "I wanted to find my own way to pay tribute to those who showed such courage and dedication and to bring their story to a new generation. I am so proud that the play will be part of the Manchester Fringe and it's fantastic that Sue Jenkins is on board to direct. She's already full of wonderful ideas that are really going to bring the play to life."
From Heaven to Hell not only focuses on the horror of the battlefield but also on those who were left at home, waiting for news.
Danny added "Friendship is something I've explored very closely in the play. It's important to capture the essence of the people I'm writing about; their resilience, their humour, their hopes and fears for the future. I really hope I've done them justice."
From Heaven to Hell will run at the Salford Arts Theatre from Saturday 1 July until Monday 3 July. Tickets are £8 and will go on sale in April.
