TICKETS are now on sale for a roaming performance across the George Street Quarter which inspired by a World War One conscientious objector.

St Helens is one of three places hosting a performance created by composer Verity Standen due to its historic significance in the stories of conscientious objection.

Ernest Everett was arrested for refusing to undertake combative service in 1916 and was court-martialled and sentenced to two years of hard labour, the first conscientious objector to receive such a sentence. Over the next few years, he was sentenced seven more times.

'Refrain' will give Ernest's story a voice and will be a roaming performance which will move across various historical sites in the town centre, including the oldest building in St Helens, the Friends Meeting House.

Men from the area have been recruited for the show.

There will be indoor and outdoor sections to explore throughout allowing the audience to walk through the singers discovering different sounds and voices as they do.

Artist Verity Standen, said: “I am thrilled to be working with such a diverse range of the voice – men drawn from all walks of life.

"I try to leave room for the performers take the music their own direction within the compositions I’m writing. I expect the piece to sound and feel totally different in each location, as it will be shaped by the local singers, the architecture and history of each site, and each audience who will explore it in a different way.”

Patrick Fox, director of the Heart of Glass added: “We are delighted to be working with partners to develop this ambitious project. Verity Standen is an extraordinary artist who creates exquisite work with her collaborators.

“The histories of conscientious objection in England require a sensitive and respectful approach. Heritage stories such as Ernest Everett, a teacher in St Helens and a World War One Conscientious Objector, are often left unheard and misunderstood, viewed as irrelevant and in isolation instead of part of a national, contemporary story.

“This story and others form the backdrop of this new immersive choral experience and we are delighted to work with our community partners and audiences to create a special experience in St Helens this May. This is art as it should be, in direct conversation with the social and political.”

The meeting point for this performance will be confirmed via e-mail. All indoor venues explored will have step free access. Performances will take place come rain or shine so please ensure you are prepared for being outdoors in all weathers.