African Soldiers in World War II

A historical fictional retelling of the real-life Kings African Rifle (KAR), comprised of soldiers from East and Southern African commonwealth nations that fought for Great Britain in WWII.

At the heart of the show is the relationship between veteran Komakech Ogwang and his curious granddaughter Anena Gladis. Bridging past and present, their conversations in present day Uganda transport us back to 1944 where we witness the experiences of the KAR in the Burma campaign fighting the Japanese army. Together they recap the stories from the war in a bid to commemorate the sacrifices of the men who fought from these nations and question their legacy amidst historic and present racial inequality.

This is a work in progress of the First Act of Never Look Back. Following the performance there will be a QnA and feedback session with the creative team and cast. Please note the approx running time is 2 hours including the QnA.

Written by John Rwothomack and Directed by James Ngobo. Originally developed as part of the Nationwide Voices scheme by English Touring Theatre. Commissioned by Sheffield Theatres.