2014 marks the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. The Great War marks this centenary by shedding a new light on the role music played in the war.

Through the songs and images of both war and the homefront, The Great War aims recreate this period for a contemporary audience. Projected images form the background to a narrative of the war's chronology and in particular, the Australian experience of the war.

The music of the war served to unite the participants in the war, both military and civilian. Through popular song and parody, they found expression of their longing for a return to peace and of their reactions to the strange experiences which overwhelmed so many societies.

First performed in November, 2013, The Great War has been developed as a touring production for both concert presentation and as a tailored show for schools.

While largely a one-man show, The Great War is augmented with other musicians as required for particular arrangements of individual songs.

Venue Format
Theatre, Hall
Technical Rating
D
Touring Party
2-3
Considerations

The show involves digital projection. A projector and screen can be provided if necessary.

John Thompson is a Brisbane-based singer-songwriter, promoter and performer. Touring around Australia and internationally with the acoustic folk duo, "cloudstreet", he most recently performed the role of the Song Man with the Australian tour of the National Theatre of Great Britain's "War Horse".

A criminal-law barrister in a former life, John brings an amazing vocal range and dexterity, as well as a lightning wit to his work. He has developed, compered and starred in comedy debates and panel game shows at festivals around Australia. His award-winning voice has captivated audiences on folk-festival stages around the world.

Company Website
cloudstreet.org/thegreatwar

Unique Selling Point

The centenary of the First World War and associated events can be linked into the tour of this show.

Marketing Materials

2015 will see the release of the companion CD for "The Great War".

Community Engagement

The tour can incorporate a workshop on parody songs. Many of the "trench-songs" of the war were parodies of popular songs of the time. A workshop can look at the way this was done and then develop new songs based on issues or events nominated by the participants. The participants would learn about this song-writing style andhow to implement it.