FINAL performances of a musical drama will be staged this weekend to start off the 100th anniversary of the First World War events at Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn.

David Thacker from Montgomery, guitarist with the band Rollo Benz, plays Eddie alongside other actors and musicians from both sides of the border in 'Poppyfields: The Musical' , a John Howard Original Productions presentation which opened last night (Thursday) and can be seen tonight Friday and this Saturday night, September 15, with a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday.

It was originally staged in February and is being revived by popular demand.

Set against the backdrop of a world at war in 1916, it tells a captivating tale of love, loss, sacrifice and brotherhood documenting the lives of four principal characters, on an emotional journey from a Home Front rife with class divide, conscription and suffrage, to the horror of the Battle of the Somme. Tickets cost £16 from the theatre box office on 01743 281281.

The war anniversary events continue next Tuesday, September 18, with a new ballet double bill from New English Ballet Theatre presenting 'The Four Seasons' and 'Remembrance'.

This visual and musical feast of passion, hope and remembrance starts with 'The Four Seasons', a dynamic recomposition by Max Richter forming the musical foundation for choreographer Jenna Lee’s bold, stylish ballet skilfully offset by dazzling costume designs representing each season.

'Remembrance', by choreographer Wayne Eagling, is inspired by the moving story of Dame Marie Rambert’s life during the Great War and is set to Handel’s 'Ode for St Cecilia’s Day'. There are shows at 2 and 7.30pm and tickets cost £18.50 or £16.

Other events at the theatre will be the Royal British Legion County Service of Remembrance including Shrewsbury Brass Band on Wednesday night, October 17; and 'The Pity of War' celebrating the life and work of the Shropshire wartime poet Wilfred Owen on Sunday, November 4.