The play follows the men of the Wellington Battalion during the Gallipoli campaign, as they capture (and tragically then saw lost) the heights of Chunuk Bair in August 1915. It’s a story of leadership, courage, loss, and the Kiwi spirit It explores the cost of war and the birth of national identity.

Colonel William Connolly (mid 40s – 50s)   CAST

Lieutenant Harkness (late 20s – 30s) CAST

Sergeant Frank Smith (30s – 40s)

Porky (20s – 30s) CAST

Scruffy (early 20s)

Young, eager, and inexperienced. Quick-witted but somewhat naïve about the true nature of war. His youthful enthusiasm and fear are a mirror of the thousands of boys sent to Gallipoli. His arc often ends in loss or shattered innocence.

Holy (20s – 30s)  CAST

Smiler (20s – 30s) CAST

Mac (30s – 40s)

A pragmatic, no-nonsense soldier. Represents the seasoned working-man mentality — direct, occasionally confrontational, but deeply loyal to his mates. Often questions authority and doesn’t hide his opinions about British command.

Bassett (20s – 30s)  CAST

Otaki George (20s – 30s, Māori)  CAST

Fred (late teens – early 20s)

One of the youngest in the group. Innocent, curious, and sometimes overwhelmed. His journey encapsulates the tragic loss of youth and potential that defines the play. A good role for a sensitive, emotionally open actor.

Nobby / Dusty (20s – 30s)

Typical Kiwi soldiers — blunt, good-humoured, and loyal. Nobby is more outspoken; Dusty more reflective. They serve as the everymen of the battalion — the chorus of ordinary voices caught in extraordinary circumstances.