An urgent new play about Hiroshima and the first atomic bomb.                                    

The dropping of the first atomic bomb is referred to on the Peace Memorial in Hiroshima as “the mistake”. Michael Mears’ compelling and profoundly moving new play, directed by Rosamunde Hutt, explores personal stories surrounding that catastrophic event.

 ★★★★    ‘The past comes alive – a gripping piece of storytelling’ (THE TIMES)

 ★★★★★    ‘I was genuinely blown away by this production.  It received one of                    the very few standing ovations I have seen at the Edinburgh. (UK THEATRE WEB)

 ★★★★   ‘A powerful examination of humanity in the wake of Hiroshima.’  (THE LIST)

 ★★★★    ‘An evocative, well-researched and urgently fascinating story.’ (SCOTSMAN)

We are looking to perform THE MISTAKE in theatre venues and studio-type spaces – but can also consider non-theatre venues where space permits.  A minimum performing area of approximately 5m x 3m would be required.   

Currently we have pencilled bookings or strong expressions of interest from venues in: Salisbury, Canterbury, Walton-on-Thames, Northampton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bewdley, Diss, York, Hull, Cardiff, Aberystwyth, Caernarfon and Peebles.

We want the play to move and enlighten audiences and to encourage them to think deeply about the questions raised.  The response from people to the play’s opening run in Edinburgh 2022 confirmed this.  For example:

‘An important story told beautifully. We were gripped, moved and enlightened.’  Elaine Russell. 

‘Even though I already knew a bit about the Hiroshima bombing, I learned a great deal more from the play. It is not only enlightening but also deeply moving.’  Mary LaFrance.

‘Superbly acted by two immensely talented actors about an historical but totally topical event.     It brought tears to my eyes – a ‘must see’ play where the use of limited props is ingenious.’     Chris Elliott.

The play is suitable for audiences of 15+ years.  It will appeal to anyone interested in history, politics, science, ethics, morality and peace studies.  We also want to perform to school and college students wherever possible. 

FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CONTACT:  thehalfitalian@aol.com   michaelmears.org                     

WINNER – of a CAROL TAMBOR INCENTIVE AWARD – EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022

WINNER – of a SPIRIT OF THE FRINGE AWARD – EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022

SHORTLISTED – for the SIT-UP AWARDS for plays making a social impact – EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022

LONGLISTED – for the BBC WRITERS’ ROOM Popcorn Awards for new writing EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022