Titchfield Festival Theatre is proud to announce its upcoming production of the beloved British comedy, Dad's Army. This popular comedy from the 60s and 70s will run from 5 – 10 May with performances coinciding with the VE80 Day commemorations.

This hilarious and entertaining show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Set once again in the small coastal town of Walmington-on-Sea, the play follows the Home Guard platoon as they prepare to face a new threat from the Nazi regime. With performances taking place during the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this production is a fitting tribute to Britain’s enduring wartime spirit and humour in the face of its darkest hour.

Sam Crosby is director of Dad’s Army and he discussed preparations for the show with Simon Frost:

Simon: Sam, what inspired you to choose to direct Dad's Army?

Sam: Dad's Army was at the forefront of my intrigue into 20th Century history. I was introduced to Dad's Army in my primary years by my Granddad, which served as a stepping-stone to better understand his involvement in World War 2 as I grew older. 

The show has always stayed fresh with every rewatch of the TV series, and when I joined Titchfield Festival Theatre I knew it was something I would want to bring to the stage, a staple British comedy that feels timeless against its modern-day counterparts. I am also delighted that Martha Austin, who worked with me on The Importance of Being Earnest last year, has joined me again for this show as the Assistant Director.

Simon: Dad’s Army is celebrated for its wonderful mix of characters, such as Pike, Sgt Wilson and of course Pte Frazer. Tell me more.

Sam: Ensuring the cast can land the character intricacies in those pinnacle moments will also be a testament to how authentic the show feels - from Frazer's gloom, and Walker's wittiness, to Wilson's elegance, Pike's naivety and Godfrey's charm.

Simon: What are you hoping audiences will enjoy about this production of Dad's Army?

Sam: For long-time fans, especially those who have yet to experience Dad's Army on-stage, I hope this production is able to capture the charm of the original series, where I hope the show provides newcomers an accurate representation to one of Britain's most beloved comedies.

Simon: How will you work with the cast to develop their characters and capture the spirit of the original series?

Sam: I have taken the time to study the key mannerisms that make each character iconic and I intend to foster an atmosphere where the cast can perfect these nuances so that each can have their moment to truly embody their characters.

Simon: What do you think will be the most rewarding aspect of directing this play?

Sam: With the original BBC cast no longer with us, it is a privilege to be able to prolong their legacy and introduce Dad's Army to a new generation. That a person seeing or performing in this production may in the future put on their own production of Dad's Army would be incredibly rewarding.

Simon: The play will perform around VE80 day commemorations. Will this be marked in a special way?

Sam: When I put this show forward in 2024, I knew of the significance of 2025 being the 80th year of the end of World War 2, and the performance would potentially land on Victory in Europe Day, the end of the war in Europe. With performances taking place on and around VE80 Day, I believe the show itself serves as a fitting commemoration - celebrating the spirit of the Home Guard and the humour that carried Britain through difficult times. This iconic series is a perfect way for a younger audience to experience WW2 albeit through comedy.”

Don't miss this opportunity to experience Dad's Army live on stage!

Dad’s Army performs in the Oak Theatre at Titchfield Festival Theatre between 5 -10 May 2025. For more information including booking tickets please go to http://titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com/ or contact our Box Office on 0333 666 3366.