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Directed by Andrew Pearson & Andy Jordan

 

 

A gripping and moving play about the lived experiences of a war veteran. 

Jimmy Vandenberg, a decorated Vietnam war veteran, works alone in his garage servicing the classic American cars of his youth while struggling to forget his battle experiences. He can’t move on when his sacrifice is not acknowledged in a nation still shamed by defeat. When Jimmy hears Trump’s call to ‘Make America Great Again’, it speaks to his anger and resentment - and he is hooked. His new-found politics drives a wedge between him and his wife, but a chance visit by the son of a fallen comrade makes him doubt his convictions and leads to a moment of understanding and redemption. 

This thought-provoking and timely play shows how those who feel disillusioned and excluded can be seduced into supporting populist politicians. The play’s depiction of the personal trauma of war resonates with the bungled withdrawal from Afghanistan and those currently fighting – and dying – in Ukraine. 

 

★★★★★ 'A masterpiece. Everyone should experience this brilliant play’ Fairy Powered Productions

"Stunning. This 70-minute drama packs a powerful punch” Camden New Journal

'Enthralling one-man show. Vergette's masterful performance has the audience on the edge of its seat through the whole of the 70-minute show’ Hackney Citizen

★★★★ 'Performed and written by a stellar talent' All That Dazzles

★★★★ 'A fascinating insight into the soul of a tortured man and the side of America he represents' London Living Large

★★★★ 'A stunning performance' Reviewsgate.com

'This play is a gem' Theatre Vibe

 

Praise for the play's Edinburgh Fringe Run 2022:

‘A gripping piece of new theatre writing’ Edinburgh Fringe Review  

'Supremely well crafted’  Edinburgh Three Weeks

★★★★★ 'A beautifully shocking insight into the lived experiences of a war veteran... an extraordinary tour de force… emotionally charged and utterly engaging’ Reviews Hub

‘An excellent storyteller… master of surprise revelations. A complex and demanding play that is a pleasure to watch’ British Theatre Guide