THE significance of a story about the heartbreak of a refugee fleeing their homeland and dealing with memories of the life they left behind would not be lost on audiences today.
While Kindertransport is set firmly before and after the Second World War, the struggles it conveys are just as important as ever. It is being staged in Bolton this month by the Marco Players.
The play takes place in two eras - with young girl Eva fleeing the persecution of the Nazis and years later when she is desperate to hide the past from her daughter Faith.
Natalie Crompton is not only directing the production but also plays the mother Eva leaves behind.
She said: “I really wanted to be involved in this play when I first read it.
“I didn’t think I’d end up directing it as well as taking a part, which brings its own challenges.
“It’s not really about the war and the rise of Nazism, although that obviously forms the backdrop to the play.
"It’s more about the relationship between a mother and her daughter and the struggle to let go - even when you know you must.”
The Kindertransport, German for ‘children’s transport’, was an organised rescue effort nine months before the outbreak of the Second World War.
Britain took nearly 10,000 children from Europe and placed them in foster homes.
Newcomer Zoe Molyneux, who plays Eva, said: “I’ve had to master a German accent for this part, something I’ve never done before and learn to think like a child.
"As a children’s entertainer in real life, I have relished it.”
Peter Haslam plays all the male characters in the play
He siad: “Not many roles require you to play a cheeky chappie one minute and a sinister Nazi border guard the next.
“That versatility is probably the main reason I accepted the part.
"That and the chance to play opposite four very strong women.”
Completing the cast are Sharon Shaw, Gilly Blair and Diane Pepper.
Kindertransport runs from February 22 to 25 at Stepping Stones Nursery, in Chorley Old Road.
To book call 01204 841561 or 07756 510462, or visit themarcoplayers.net.
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