This year, JCG Youth Theatre commemorated the 80th anniversary of Liberation with “Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears”, a play inspired by stories of the Occupation told through the eyes of children who lived through those difficult years. Written by Karen Forbes, former Head of English at JCG, the play was adapted using stories from Therese Tabb’s book “Occupation Memories” and featured 32 students from Year 8 to 13. The main cast and some of the crew shared their memories.
Directing the play
Mrs Stone - Head of Drama
As Head of Drama, I felt it was essential for JCG to do something to mark the 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation from Nazi Occupation during the Second World War. I had already directed Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears for the JADC in 2022 but with adult actors playing all the kids. This was great fun but nowhere near as much fun as directing the show again, this time with real children. It was such a wonderful experience and the energy brought to the piece by our brilliant cast was amazing. Tech Club also created the most beautiful set and Mr Bailey’s projections on the huge screen in the Hall brought home the realities of life in Jersey in the Occupation years. The kids in those times were no different to kids today. Their stories, through this play, are now set down forever and will not be forgotten. school.
They played Queenie...
Abi - Year 9
I had so much fun performing in Barbed Wire & Teddy Bears at JCG. I learnt more about teamwork and collaborating with others during the production. This show also gave me the opportunity to create loads of new friends from all different years. I learnt more about confidence and acting during the rehearsals. The rehearsals were tiring but it was all worth it when we stepped on stage. The atmosphere at rehearsals was always high and everyone brought something to the show. It was such an honour to be able to be in the production.
Ophelia - Year 8
I really enjoyed doing the show Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears with JCG and Mrs Stone because it helped me develop valuable skills not only in acting but in teamwork and friendships. It was great to build strong friendships through the rehearsals and even better being able to perform on stage with those friends. Going to rehearsals three times a week was definitely tough but rewarding in so many ways when we were able to see the final product on stage.
They played Roy…
Florence - Year 9
Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears was one of the most incredible experiences I have had. I gained so much confidence as a person and made so many new friends that I never would have otherwise. My acting skills improved hugely and although the show was not always easy, I enjoyed every moment of it. The atmosphere was always so encouraging and friendly and I truly looked forward to every rehearsal. I especially loved playing Roy. He was a very sweet young boy and it was interesting and exciting playing a character like him. Overall I found the experience so rewarding and I would do it all over again!
Esther - Year 9
The show Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears helped me grow my confidence in my acting skills and got me talking to people that I otherwise would not have talked to. The show was not always easy, but everyone found fun in it. Rehearsals had a great atmosphere to practise the show in, and I really enjoyed being Roy, who was a very sweet boy!
They played Tommo...
Erin - Year 12
Playing the role of Tommo in Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears, which was performed during the 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation, was a truly unforgettable and meaningful experience. I felt incredibly honoured to be part of such a unique production that explored the island’s history during the occupation in such a powerful and personal way. Bringing Tommo to life helped me understand the emotional impact of those years, and I learned so much about the resilience, courage, and everyday struggles of the people who lived through it. This role has given me a much deeper appreciation for the island we live in today and a renewed respect for those who experienced the hardships of the occupation firsthand.
Ella - Year 9
Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears was such an amazing experience and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I met some wonderful new people and made fantastic memories. Tommo was such an exciting role to play since I could just have fun and mess about with him. The rehearsals were always packed with energy and totally worth it when we stepped on stage. This was such a challenging but very rewarding show and I would do it again in a heartbeat.
They played Gwen...
Cerys - Year 12
It was such an amazing experience to be in such a memorable and meaningful play. Getting to explore important stories from courageous people that make up Jersey’s history was an honour. It was an amazing opportunity to explore this play as we not only educated ourselves, but were able to educate others too. All the cast members and tech crew were so kind and welcoming seeing as it was my first school show with JCG and we all became a little drama family. I will remember it forever.
Hannah - Year 12
Barbed Wire and Teddy Bears was my first play at JCG and it was definitely the highlight of my year! Being able to express myself in such a supportive community was an experience I wouldn’t give up for the world. The teachers were incredible at producing and directing the play and we couldn’t be more grateful to them. The energy that everyone brought to rehearsals and performances was unmatched and I created so many new friendships. It was such an incredible opportunity and I can’t wait to do it all over again next year!
