This play, written by Peter Arnott and directed by Cathy Thomas-Grant tells the story of a little known event which took place in the 1930s in America.
Veterans of the First World War were out of work in the midst of the Great Depression. In 1924, they had been given certificates that they could not redeem until 1945. Because they were desperate, starving, jobless, they marched on Washington DC to demand immediate payment.
On July28th, 1932, police forcibly tried to move the protestors. Two veterans died. The President Hoover ordered the army to clear the site, which they did under the leadershif of General MacArthur.
Infantry, Cavalry and 6 tanks were used to crush the revolt.
The veterans were eventaully paid their money in 1936.
The play was powerful and moving. The performances by the students were convincing and strong.
The music and the songs, weitten by my son John as Musical Director were wonderfully performed.
This was the World Premier of this Play. I hope it is given the chance of a much wider audience.
If you are in Edinburgh, go see it at Venue C.
The Second play we saw was The 27 Club, and told musically the story of a number of well known performers who all died at the age of 27, such as Amy Whitehouse, Janis Joplin and so on.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonus_Army
http://www.historynet.com/the-bonus-army-war-in-washington.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiMuzkpT8Xs
http://playwrightincages.blogspot.co.uk/p/about-peter-arnott.html
http://seaver.pepperdine.edu/academics/faculty/default.htm?faculty=cathy_thomas-grant
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| Pepperdine Students meeting to see The 27 Club |
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| John in costume |
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| Houston and Harry from The 27 Club |
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| John |
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| bemused John |
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