Jake’s Gift is a surprisingly funny drama that tells the story of a Canadian World War II veteran who reluctantly returns to Normandy for the 60th anniversary of D-Day.
This award-winning production will be presented as a special matinée performance at Harrison Memorial Hall on Sunday, May 8, 2 p.m.
The story follows a vet revisiting the beach he landed on 60 years earlier. Jake encounters Isabelle, a precocious 10-year-old from the local village whose inquisitive nature and charm challenge the old soldier to confront some long-ignored ghosts – most notably, the war-time death of his eldest brother Chester, a once promising young musician.
Julia Mackey wrote the play and is the only actor, playing four different characters.
In 2004, Mackey make the trek to Normandy, France, for the 60th anniversary of D-Day. During that eight-day journey, she interviewed dozens of Canadian, British and American veterans who had returned for the ceremonies. The stories they shared with Julia and her own life-long interest in World War II inspired the development of the play. The play is 60 minutes and will be followed by a discussion with Mackey over desserts, tea and coffee (included in ticket price).
Tickets are $20, or a special seniors' rate $18, by phone 604 796-3664 or at harrisonfestival.com.