‘A beautifully interpreted production of a true story – a powerful and moving event’ were just two of the tributes paid by enthusiastic audiences last year at the Wimborne premiere of GI Joe in Dorset, aspecially written play, celebrating the presence of over 8,000 African American GIs in Dorset in 1944.
Dorset based playwrights Tony Horitz and Sharon Muiruri, of State of Play, were commissioned by local educational charity DEED (Development Education in Dorset) to create the play, GI Joe in Dorset in 2012. The script draws on research by local poet Louisa Adjoa Parker, including interviews with people about their memories of Dorset in 1944; those involved included living relatives of African American GIs.
“It has been very exciting, developing the play out of these dramatic and moving stories” said Tony Horitz. “We hope our play reflects the truth of their experience and brings their courage and love alive for young and older audiences today.”
GI Joe weaves together two different stories. Pete, in 2012, is a man of few words who works hard to make a living. But a phone call out of the blue causes him to reflect on his past and rethink his identity. Meanwhile, Joe, in 1944, arrives in Dorset with his Tank regiment, the so-called Black Panthers, feeling homesick and perplexed as to why he only gets to do ‘humdrum’ jobs. The he meets Lily, a young Dorset girl at a Dance, and a romance quickly blossoms – only to be threatened by forces beyond their control.
“In a sense, it’s a new version of the Romeo and Juliet story” adds Sharon Muiruri. “It has all the ingredients of great drama – love, conflict and friendship – with fighting, singing and dancing to link it!”
“This whole project has been amazing!” commented Louise Boston-Mammah, Programme Co-ordinator, DEED. “The impact on local people when they hear the stories and reminisce about their childhood living in Dorset during the Second World War has been genuinely moving. We wanted to bring this to people in a way they can also experience these emotions. What better way than through drama and performance”.
Fri 11th October, 7:30pm. Melbury Osmond Village Hall. 01935 83410
Sat 12th October, 7:30pm. Broadmayne Village Hall. 01305 854205
Sun 13th October, 7:30pm. Durweston Village Hall. 01258 453170
