JRT pays tribute to soldiers
Now in its 11th year, Jonesborough Repertory Theatres 1940s USO Show still has soldiers saluting and audience members tapping.
It is, after all, the whole purpose behind the production, according to Jennifer Schmidt, JRTs artistic director.
It all started when Kathleen Buttolph (a former JRT director) came to me and asked me if I would be interested in doing something patriotic for Jonesborough Days, recalled Schmidt, who remains the shows writer and director. It kind of grew from there. The format remains the same, but the show is different every year.
The USO Show, which runs through Sunday, July 13, is designed as a tribute to Americas service men and women, taking audiences back in time to WJRT radio station in the 1940s. It features music, dance and a liberal dose of humor sprinkled throughout.
Songs, according to Schmidt, are all indicative of the era.
It was a special time, she said. Everyone supported the country. Everyone banded together. It was written in the music.
While the military medley the song that is specifically dedicated to veterans remains the same every year, Schmidt acknowledges that she starts from scratch with the rest.
At first, she worried that as the show continued in popularity her choices would become limited. But, she said, she found just the opposite to be true.
I learn something every time I research, Schmidt said. There is so much wonderful material.
And the material continues to draw in the crowds each year.
Weve almost sold out for this weekend, she said prior to the shows June 26 launch. I think basically in an audience, everyone wants to see a show and come away uplifted. This show does that on so many levels.
It is also a wonderful opportunity to honor Americas veterans.
We are so blessed, Schmidt said. Were thankful for the men and women that made our lives what it is today.
Woody Johnson, an Air Force veteran as well as a frequent audience member, agrees. Its an appreciation for the heritage of our country, Johnson said.
Its also a fitting tribute, he believes, for soldiers past and present.
We do have a lot of soldiers still serving. We need to remember this, he said.
Tickets for the 1940s USO Show are $15 for general admission and $13 for seniors and students, and are available by calling the HIstoric Jonesborough Visitors Center at 753-1010 or visiting www.jonesboroughtheatre.com.
Performances will be held Thursday through Sunday, July 3-6, and Fridaythrough Sunday, July 11-13, with evening and matinee performances.