EastEnders star Max Bowden is swapping the small screen for the stage as the award-winning actor is set to star in Birdsong. Marking the 30th anniversary of the international best-selling novel by Sebastian Faulks, the production will come to London in October for a five day run in Richmond.
The critically acclaimed show, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and directed by Alastair Whatley, tells the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War.
Set in pre-war France, young Englishman Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground.
Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him. Max, who also starred as Justin Fitzgerald in Waterloo Road, will portray Jack Firebrace in the brand new production.
Sharing his excitement about joining Birdsong, Max said: “I’m so excited to be collaborating with Original Theatre again on a project close to my heart.
“Birdsong highlights the tragedy of war, yet the beauty of humanity simultaneously through strong relationships under extreme circumstances, and I can’t wait to bring Jack Firebrace to life under their guidance.”
The director of Birdsong, Alastair Whatley, added: “Max joined us to play the character of Tipper, a young soldier, in the 2016 tour of Birdsong and now the best part of a decade later returns to play the wonderful role of Jack Firebrace.
“I cannot wait to get back in the rehearsal room with Max to explore one of Sebastian’s most unforgettable characters.”
Max Bowden has left EastEnders
Max Bowden has confirmed his departure from EastEnders in a statement released on social media. The Ben Mitchell actor has left his role on the long-running BBC soap after five years after his character was arrested by police in tense scenes.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday (March 26), the 29-year-old wrote: “Well guys it’s that time! It’s been one hell of a ride! Thanks for taking Ben to your hearts and allowing my version into your lives.
“I had an amazing five years at @bbceastenders and learnt a hell of a lot about myself and the craft I love so dearly; it got me through some very hard personal times and I will be forever grateful!
Max continued: “I really will never be able to thank everybody for the support enough, because the fans of the show are so passionate, caring, and invested and it enables us as actors to want to keep going and always be better.
“So I really do from the bottom of my heart appreciate every single person who has sent any sort of positivity my way over the last five years – I love you all. Ben Mitchell 6.0 over and out Goodbye EE! I’ll miss you all. X.”
You can buy tickets to see Max Bowden in Birdsong here.
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