ARTICLE 1 LETTERS FROM THE FRONT World's Most Decorated Play Tours Bases When Needed Most |
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"Thanks! I needed that!" is something the Letters From The Front troupe hears a lot these days. Known as "The World's Most Decorated Play," this ever popular show has been touring stateside and overseas military installations since 1991. Its timeless American themes have always been appreciated by military audiences, but after the events that rocked the nation on September 11th, the story depicted in Letters From The Front took on added significance. According to the show’s Producer, Marsha Roberts, "We are often asked about the more profound aspects of our show and so I think most people are surprised by how entertaining Letters From the Front is -- and how funny. The biggest misconception is that the play is only about reading war correspondence, when in fact the letters are really the centerpiece of a two hour dramedy revolving around two very dynamic characters. David Regelmann’s character, radio comedy star Johnny Chastain, cracks up audiences throughout the show. Melanie Collup plays Katharine Hartgrove, a war mom everybody can relate to. There’s also music and even a lively dance number. The results are poignant, funny, and moving -- a terrific night of theatre!" Michelle Pinkard’s review for the Shreveport Times referred to Letters From The Front as a "Broadway-style production" and said, "By interweaving actual letters written from both the war and home fronts, the creators invite the audience to take a tear-jerking, hand-clapping, mind-blowing, two-hour stroll through history." "We realize that our show is a powerful morale building tool - a responsibility we take very seriously," says Roberts. "With so many deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and other difficult areas, obviously emotions on the home front are running high. Many of our audience members don’t know whether or not their loved ones are safe. Without exception they tell us after seeing the show that Letters From The Front gave them hope and comfort - and a good laugh - which might be the most important thing we do!" The story of Letters From The Front is told through actual war correspondence written by everyday Americans in major conflicts going back to the Revolutionary War. "Hearing how other generations were able to maintain their vision of freedom, their sense of dignity and their love not only for family and friends, but for their fellow Americans is what gives people hope," states Writer/Director Robert Rector. "What it basically says is: we went through the worst of times and we not only survived, we grew in purpose and in strength." "Obviously there are echoes of what’s happening in the world right now in the words and themes of the play," Rector says. "The show really points out the sacrifices of the families and I think, coupled with what’s going on in hot spots around the globe, it has a greater impact then ever. We just want the troops who are in places like Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan, and those who are getting ready to go, to know how much we’re behind them. And, the families, well, we’re staying here to bring a great show to them - to let them know how much they are appreciated - and hopefully leave them feeling better all the way around." The (name of base) community can see Letters From the Front at (name of facility) on (play dates). Shows are at (show times) and, after the show, audience members can meet the stars. As part of a Defense Commissary Agency worldwide promotion, Letters From the Front is corporately sponsored. The show is suitable for middle school age and up. Younger children will not understand the play’s mature themes and are discouraged from attending. Those wishing to sample authentic war letters, or learn more about this extraordinary play, can do so on the Internet at www.letters-from-the-front.com. # # # |
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