A War of Two Halves returns to Tynecastle

A War of Two Halves tells the story of the Hearts players who volunteered for McCrae’s Battalion in 1915, told in an evocative, dramatic journey through Tynecastle Park that follows The Hearts from the football fields of Gorgie to the battlefields of the Somme, and was first performed in 2018.

Sweet F.A. follows one First World War women’s factory football team fighting for their right to play the beautiful game, until women’s football is shockingly banned by the authorities in 1921. A play with songs, featuring original music composed by Matthew Brown, first performed in 2021.

Written by Paul Beeson & Tim Barrow, directed by Bruce Strachan, both plays are published individually by Tippermuir Books.

A War of Two Halves plays from Wednesday 3rd August with numerous shows each day (performances dependent upon football fixtures – check listings). Sweet F.A. plays from Wednesday 3rd August at 7:45pm (performances dependent upon fixtures). Both productions are suitable for ages 12 and upwards, and take place outside in locations around Tynecastle Park.

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“We are greatly honoured that both A War of Two Halves and Sweet F.A. are returning to Tynecastle Park this year. The opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of a football stadium whilst watching a dramatic retelling of historical events is a truly unique theatre experience, not just for those with a passion for the beautiful game. Both stories blend humour, drama, camaraderie and some hard-to-believe historical truths – all underscored by evocative live music and, in my opinion, set in the best venue on the Fringe. We’re grateful as always to Hearts for welcoming us back, particularly given the complexities of working around their European football commitments this year. ”

                                    Bruce Strachan, Director

Heart of Midlothian Football Club welcomes audiences to their stadium, the historic Tynecastle Park:

"Both productions highlight important episodes from the Club's proud history, and we are thrilled that both plays make these accessible and captivating for football and non-football audiences alike.  A War of Two Halves performed to sell out audiences in 2018 and 2019 and returns by popular request. BBC Radio 4's Front Row listed Sweet FA as 1 of the 3 must-see shows across last year's Fringe and International Festival. Staged in the covered surroundings of the Club’s new main stand, it provides an unforgettable spectacle as a powerful all-women cast enact the fascinating history of women's football leading up to it being "banned" by Scottish footballing authorities in 1921. Brilliant dialogue and powerful songs deliver a no holds barred take on the petty, personal and collective prejudices of the powers running the Scottish game. The stunning backdrop of the pitch and stadium added to the drama. Thanks to our sponsors, ASC Scaffolding, we will recreate this unique staging for a limited number of performances. Early booking is advised."

Ann Park, Director - Communities and Partnerships, Heart of Midlothian Football Club

"I have seen both plays and they are magnificent. A War of Two Halves is very poignant about McCrae's battalion and the war and makes you extremely proud to be a Hearts supporter. Sweet FA highlights just how difficult it was for girls and women to play football all those years ago. Thankfully, times change, and the women's game is flourishing now. Both brilliant to watch and I would 100% recommend you get along to Tynecastle to see them both."

                                    Gary Locke, Club Ambassador, Heart of Midlothian Football Club

For media enquiries contact Tim Barrow on 07957 342556 and thisismystoryproductions@gmail.com 

Reviews for A War of Two Halves

“Devastating emotion” … “the sincerity, emotional directness, and beautiful staging of A War Of Two Halves deserves to transcend sporting allegiances. Simply unmissable.” 5 stars in All Edinburgh Theatre

“Evocative and perfectly-pitched. All will enjoy this production for its very human look at themes of duty, sacrifice and long-lasting trauma.” 4 stars in The Scotsman

Reviews for Sweet F.A.

"This warm, witty and wonderful play won over the audience as it explored the importance and impact of women’s football during World War One." 5 Stars in THREE WEEKS

"The songs are grand, the live music heart-warming, the team spirit of the company a joy to experience." 4 Stars in THE SCOTSMAN

"History, emotion and righteous anger combine tunefully and humorously in Sweet F.A., This Is My Story Productions’ thoroughly welcome return to Tynecastle Park." 4 Stars in ALL EDINBURGH THEATRE

"A story that has a universality that could be recognised by all – a rare blend." 4 Stars from MUSICAL THEATRE REVIEW