A NEW work applauded as a “special kind of theatrical experience” will premier in the Yarra Ranges in November.
Flak – True Stories From the Men Who Flew in World War Two is written and performed by local actor and writer Michael Veitch, well known for his work on the comedy series Fast Forward, as presenter of the ABC’s Sunday Arts Program, and as a radio broadcaster and author.
Based on his two best-selling books, Flak and Fly, Veitch has been developing this work for the stage and says he is delighted to premier it locally ahead of a national tour next year.
In Flak, Veitch takes on the roles of former airmen, recounting their extraordinary, true and largely untold stories of combat in the air war of 1939-45.
Dr Mark Williams’s observations of Veitch and his work give a clue as to what audiences can expect.
As Adjunct Professor of the School of Art at RMIT University, Dr. Williams describes Veitch as a rare calibre of storyteller.
“He puts humanity and wry observation into the terrible arithmetic of air warfare,” he said.
“His personal mission to honour the memory and the memories of the last of a generation who bear a remarkable witness is a special kind of theatrical experience.”
The sneak peek for Yarra Ranges audiences is certainly a treat.
Flak will be at Burrinja on Thursday, 7 November, The Memo in Healesville on Friday, 8 November and at Montrose Town Centre on Saturday, 18 November.
Book at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/program2013 or phone 1300 368 333.
