By Peter Rothstein
Vocal Arrangements by Erick Lichte & Timothy C. Takach Western front. The firing slowed down and then stopped. As the sounds of war were silenced, the fear of the enemy subsided long enough for some to step forward. During and after this unofficial ceasefire and Christmas merriment many soldiers wrote letters to their loved ones expressing wonder, relief, and gratitude for a day or two without any fighting. Some of these messages were recited as part of the play. They sang, played games, and even exchanged small gifts. They also took this time to bury their dead. While I believe this story and the sentiment are extremely important, I mustn’t neglect the play and the performance. The set was simple, but exactly what was needed, just a few crates, and some barbed wire with a starry backdrop. Later in the play there were wooden crosses placed at the back of the stage where the soldiers had stopped to bury their comrades. The performers were called upon to speak in various accents, memorize dialogue, including the heartfelt letters from soldiers who had been there, emoting sadness, joy, relief, fear, and even humour. We saw tears well up in the eyes of one soldier near the front of the stage. This play really focused on the break in the fighting and there was no gore or graphic images of war. The acting was brilliant, but the joy for me was in the music. The music was all performed a cappella. Most of the songs were familiar to me. There were old favourites like ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’, ‘We wish You a Merry Christmas’ and ‘Angels We
Have Heard on High’ as well as some oldies that I had not heard before, totalling more than 30 songs in all. From the highest falsetto to the deep rumbling of the bass, each note was perfection. The musical arrangements were genius. The harmonies were delicious. The talent was enormous. Not surprisingly they received a standing ovation and we clapped until our hands were tired. We were even treated to a short encore. This was an exceptional production telling a compelling story and delivering an important message. If only we could see each other as people, we would have a much gentler world. When the news got out that the soldiers had laid down their arms and engaged with the enemy, ‘the powers that be’ did everything they could to make sure that there was never a repeat of the Christmas truce of 1914. The reason is simple. It was harder to kill someone after you have laughed with them and joined them in song and celebration. Apparently, it took the fight out of them which was not the desired effect. I loved everything about this play and the Rosebud performance, and I highly recommend it. I am forever grateful that I have never had to send my children to war. Remembrance Day is a very important day to remember and appreciate those who have fought on our behalf, but also to think about the costs of war. Lest we forget.
Music Overcoming Conflict
November 3 – December 23 Only 1 hour from Chestermere
1-800-267-7553 • RosebudTheatre.com
Chestermere Anchor News Magazine: Home Grown, Well Anchored, Reaching far beyond Chestermere’s Shores
November 13, 2023
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