Jamie Jones-Buchanan is set to showcase his acting skills when he make his stage debut in 2016 in a brand new play Leeds Lads.
From local theatre company Red Ladder and the Leeds Civic Arts Guild, the play commemorates one hundred years since the Leeds Pals fought at the Battle of the Somme in 1916 and tells the story of a young girl, Tara, whose great grandfather fought in the War.
With music and songs throughout, performed by an incredible company of Leeds performers, the play transports you from the turmoil and tensions of war, to the rich and multi-cultural city we know today.
Speaking about his role in the play Jones-Buchanan said: “I first became aware of Red Ladder when I saw Playing the Joker, a couple of the years ago. It was a fantastic production that toured Rugby League clubs. I loved the play and the production and I got to know the company and then they asked me to get involved in their new play ‘Leeds Lads’.
“I’m a Leeds boy and I’m really excited to get immersed in the history of Leeds and its diversity, it’s something quite special. As someone who has grown up in Leeds I know a lot about the place, but not particularly the history.
“I’ve been on an amazing journey with Leeds Rhinos and met some great people and won some great trophies and think that now it’s time to give back. Sometimes that’s not always in sport, but can be with businesses and churches, but sometimes other ways like getting involved in things like this.”
Leeds Rhinos Foundation, who are long-term supporters of the Leeds based theatre company, have given Jones-Buchanan who is also a trustee of the charity their best wishes for his new acting role. Director of Operations, Bob Bowman, said: “The Leeds Rhinos Foundation are delighted to promote, support and be actively involved in the Red Ladder production of Leeds Lads.
“Our partnership with Red Ladder goes back many years and we were privileged to host their excellent production 'Playing the Joker' at the stadium.
“The Arts is a key principle upon which the Foundation works from along with Education, Health, Sport and Heritage and Red Ladder working with us enhances our Arts offer tremendously.
“This new production will bring to life the impact of the First World War felt so dramatically by our city as the Leeds born Tommys went off to fight for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Playing at The Carriageworks Theatre Millennium Square, Leeds from 17 to 25 June 2016, tickets are now on sale. Visit www.leeds.gov.uk/carriageworks or call Box Office on: 0113 376 0318, to see Jamie in action on a very different stage!