Review: War Notes

Beautiful songs from a bygone era conjuring up all the familiar images we have of the previous World Wars are presented by Lili La Scala, looking every inch the 1940's chanteuse. From the opening of "Keep the Home Fires Burning" to an encore of "We'll Meet Again", the audience are taken back in time and yet, this production also seeks to challenge us to consider war today. In between the songs are recorded letters written by modern soldiers who have died in Iraq, Afghanistan and other Theatres of War in the 21st century. It is heartbreaking to hear their last words to their loved ones. The letters are then followed by the old war songs but the lyrics remain as true today as they were then. Ably accompanied by a pianist, this is a simple cabaret but one which engaged the audience and took them on a journey down memory lane, albeit a lane that is fast disappearing from our memories. A poignant rendition of some masterpieces beautifully kept alive by this production.

11/08/2010