October 20, 2012

War Bonds was performed in the Benjamin Russell High School auditorium Thursday evening. | Kenneth Boone

By Virginia Spears
‘War Bonds’ uses letters to show societal impact

Published 9:10am Saturday, October 20, 2012

Alexander City Arts, Inc., kicked off the 2012-2013 season at Benjamin Russell High School Thursday with the EBZB production of War Bonds: The Songs & Letters of World War II.

Actors Serena Ebhardt and David zum Brunnen arranged the revue, which opened with a recording of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s radio news report of the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Ebhardt and zum Brunnen, accompanied by pianist Greg Dixon, then carried their audience on an energetic, enthusiastic and sometimes emotional journey through the war years. Their innovative history lesson contrasted humorous aspects of the awkwardness of war with its harsh realities through songs and authentic letters from the period.

The revue highlighted hits, such as “This is My Country,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “White Cliffs of Dover” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Interspersed between Ebhardt’s solid vocals, zum Brunnen read letters from soldiers, presidents, wives and mothers. The mix brought attention to the sacrifices made at home and abroad, the staggering statistics of casualties and the effects of the war on society, including the contributions of women and those of black soldiers. Ebhardt and zum Brunnen drew laughter and applause throughout the production with audience participation during “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree…,” “One Meatball” and Ebhardt’s sultry impersonation of Marlene Dietrich.

While the set for War Bonds was minimal, consisting of war posters on banners, the costuming was spot on, right down to the stocking seams painted on Ebhardt’s calves.

Alexander City Arts, Inc., president Karen Kison said she thought the audience enjoyed the performance. “I think the performers did a great job of showing what happened during that period, and having letters from real people gave it more meaning.”

The non-profit arts organization next month will sponsor Embraceable You, a song and dance show featuring the music of George Gershwin. “I am excited about that,” Kison said. “We haven’t had a production that includes dancing with the music in a long time. I think it will be a lot of fun for the audience.” Tickets for the show, which will be held at the BRHS auditorium on Nov. 15, will be available online at www.alexandercityarts.com or at Second Act, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and Thomas Mortgage.

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