Hannah – The Soldier Diaries
by Northern Life
The world premiere of a brand new, Yorkshire-inspired musical will take place this April in Scarborough.
Hannah – The Soldier Diaries takes the stage for the first time from 9th to 14th April 2024 (inclusive) at the historic Scarborough Spa Theatre overlooking the South Bay.
Written by Steve Wallis, who lives in Scarborough, and with music by Nik Martin, the production features a local cast, including Zoe Wright in the title role.
Zoe Wright who plays Hannah taken at the Flower of Mayfield by Aiden Clarke Photography
Steve said: “It’s a story that’s not just powerful but deeply rooted in love and compassion.
“The idea came to me about two years ago, which led to us creating an audiobook with Zoe as narrator. This developed into this feature-length musical with original songs, fabulous dance routines and a ‘tug at your heartstrings’ storyline.
“We’ve drawn inspiration from the beautiful town of Scarborough, harnessed the immense talent of our local community, and created a tale of emotions that will touch your heart.”
Based on the much-loved audiobook, Hannah – The Soldier Diaries brings to life the journey of Hannah, a student hairdresser, and Jack, a brave soldier serving in the British Army during the Afghan War in 2012.
Hannah features a special foreword narrated by the charismatic actor and presenter, Ross Kemp, along with the D-Day Darlings, the best-selling female group from the realms of Britain’s Got Talent.
Steve said: “We are thrilled that Ross Kemp and the D-Day Darlings are on board with Hannah. However, we haven’t forgotten our local roots: we are using many strands of the local community to help with this production.
“Zoe and Linda Newport, who plays Mrs M in the production, are both leading local talents and are no strangers to the Scarborough Spa. With lots of local talent as part of this original musical, audiences are in for a treat!”
This musical tells a timeless narrative, exploring themes of love, longing, and resilience, appealing to generations and weaving together the threads of human experience – loss, love, endurance, and hope.
Zoe said: “Hannah is a person who knows her own mind, who is caught up in this love story which many people will identify with.
“Hannah is a person who knows her own mind, who is caught up in this love story which many people will identify with.”
“Musicals have the power to express a range of emotions in the songs and dance performances, and Hannah is no exception.”
Steve said: “Whether you live in the town, or visit it regularly, audience members will be in for a treat as we feature a number of Scarborough’s famous places in the plot.
“Locations include the Italian Gardens, South Bay and North Bay.
Zoe Wright who plays Hannah taken at the Flower of Mayfield by Aiden Clarke Photography
“From the start of this project, which has taken the best part of two years, we wanted this to be set in Scarborough and also be true to this unique seaside town.
“I moved to the coast a few years ago, and was bowled over by the stunning beauty and sense of place.
“As time went on, I also realised how much talent is on the doorstep!
“As time went on, I also realised how much talent is on the doorstep!”
“We’ve worked almost entirely with local businesses, organisations and charities to help get Hannah on stage.”
Hannah includes an eclectic, catchy and varied song list, including ‘Butterflies’, ‘Freefall’, ‘Fairground’ and ‘Call Me’.
If you would like to attend the premiere of Hannah, tickets are available:
https://www.scarboroughspa.co.uk/whats-on/hannah-the-soldier-diaries
