Our friend Michael Mears writes:

Just over 100 years ago British conscientious objectors were locked down in this country against their will because of the ‘virus’ it was feared they were spreading- the virus of pacifism and anti-militarism. Now as we are all locked down against our will for several weeks Michael Mears, actor and solo playwright, has made a home movie version of his acclaimed solo stage play THIS EVIL THING, (which he has performed over 100 times in the UK and in the USA, including in Bath in November 2018).

It portrays the compelling and inspiring story of Britain’s WW1 conscientious objectors.

Using just his i-phone and its excellent ‘movie’ features and using every available corner of his two-bedroom flat in SW London, Michael has recreated his performance of all 52 roles (some with only one line, granted) as well as performing all the roles within a film crew (including doing his own catering…)

This lockdown offering is in 6 x 15 minute ‘chapters’ – and will be premiered on Youtube from 3pm on Friday 15th May, International Conscientious Objectors’ Day. The first three chapters are on the 15th, then the final three chapters on the 16th May.

CHAPTER 1    https://youtu.be/loDLsow0_Sk
CHAPTER 2    https://youtu.be/XwR5W-H7Wr8
CHAPTER 3    https://youtu.be/ZZ1UzPZ8im0
CHAPTER 4    https://youtu.be/zJbfuuJhNp8

Or go to www.michaelmears.org where all the links will also be found.The chapters will remain online after these dates…

‘The conscientious objectors’ story is rarely presented with this level of wisdom, perception, compassion and balance’ (The Bath Magazine)

‘A moving and dynamic retelling of a hidden story’ (The List)

‘An inspirational and disturbing work’ – (Festmag)

‘Magnificent storytelling’ – (Amnesty International)