Set in Berlin in the autumn of 1942, Berlin Hanover Express explores the implications of a country remaining neutral in a time of war.

Inside the Irish consulate, officials and diplomats try to carry on their routine business. Outside, RAF bombing of the capital of the Third Reich intinsifies. As the security services discover the true origins of the consulate’s German cook, should the staff step in to protect her or will their neutrality render them powerless in preventing the crimes unfolding around them? As the secrets of the Nazi regime are uncovered, can a country remain neutral in a time of war?

Berlin Hanover Express is the first stage play by Ian Kennedy Martin, a television writer who created the popular series The Sweeney and Juliet Bravo.

It is directed by Michael Rudman, a former Artistic Director of Hampstead theatre between 1973 and 1978. He returns to the theatre as part of its 50th anniversary season, which combines revivals of past hits and new plays to celebrate the theatre’s history and move it into the future.

For more about Berlin Hanover Express at the Hampstead theatre read our First Night Feature.