Edinburgh Fringe 2024
The Last Bantam
Michael Hughes
Genre: Drama, Historical, Theatre
Venue: Paradise in Augustines
Festival: Edinburgh Fringe
Low Down
Review
The Last Bantam is a solo theatre piece that brings to life the story of the often-overlooked Bantam battalions of World War I. These battalions were formed to allow shorter men (5ft to 5ft 3in) from Britain, Ireland, and Canada to enlist, giving soldiers like Patrick Michael Wolfe, a teacher from Dublin, the chance to serve. Soldiers were motivated by a mix of patriotism, adventure, and the need for work. For Wolfe, there was also the promise of home rule for Ireland. Written and performed by Michael Hughes, and directed by Jonathan Hansler, this performance poignantly reminds us of the sacrifices made by these men.
The audience plays the role of wartime reporters, gathered to hear news from the front and listen to this soldier’s tale. The presence of a single soldier in uniform evokes a sense of history and reverence. It’s deeply moving to see one man embody the spirit of so many who served, fought, and died in the trenches of Europe. The compact performance space adds to the atmosphere, making the audience feel as though they are right there with the soldier, sharing his memories and his solitude.
Hughes captures the voice, thoughts, and experiences of the Bantams, portraying a character who is eager yet anxious, proud yet painfully aware of the war’s futility. The story he tells is not just his own but that of thousands of others who were thrust into the war machine’s relentless demand for more men.
Hughes’s performance is assured and moving, bringing to life the internal and external battles faced by the Bantams. We are reminded of the courage and resilience of these men, who fought not just against the enemy but against societal expectations that once deemed them unfit for service. The play’s strength lies in its ability to humanise these soldiers, giving them a voice that resonates long after the final curtain.
Just as the soldiers used humour to relieve their anxiety and fear, Hughes’s writing and performance cleverly incorporate it at key moments. These lighter touches broaden the emotional range of the piece and paint a richer picture of the soldiers’ experiences. This contrast with the darker themes makes the performance not only moving but also entertaining and deeply human. Hughes’s skill as a writer and performer allows him to seamlessly shift between moments of levity and gravity, creating a piece that is as engaging as it is profound.
The Last Bantam is not just a history lesson. It reflects on the enduring nature of war and the political divisions that continue to plague us. As we watch the last Bantam soldier, we are compelled to ask difficult questions about the lessons of the past and whether we have truly learned from them. The futility and horror of war are laid bare, and the play serves as a stark reminder of the cost of conflict, so often measured in human lives.
Hughes’s script is well-researched and thoughtfully written, capturing both the personal and universal aspects of war. His portrayal is respectful and powerful, paying homage to the Bantam soldiers while challenging the audience to reflect on the broader implications of their sacrifices. The Last Bantam is a hidden gem that’s well worth seeking out. Hughes’s performance is a masterclass in solo storytelling, ensuring that the voices of the past continue to be heard today.
