World War 1 & Vietnam War

 

Performances

Years 9 and 10 students were fortunate to attend shows presented by accomplished actor and guitarist, Brett Hunt.  Year 9 viewed Fightin’ the Kaiser while Year 10 were informed and entertained by the one act play, Dusted Off which was featured at the National Library of Australia in 2016.   

Dusted Off is centred on the experience of Australian soldiers in the Vietnam War.  It is based on Brett’s own story as the son of a Vietnam veteran and his knowledge of the camaraderie and tribulations experienced by this group of Australians.   The show combines humour, pathos and the music of the time period including Redgum’s ‘I Was Only 19’ which immortalised Hunt’s father “Frankie”.  Dusted Off is particularly useful to Year 10 study of Vietnam Campaign as part of the Cold War.  

Year 9 students attended a performance of  Fightin’ the Kaiser which focused on the realities of World War I. Described as a one man vaudeville, the story of the ANZACs is revealed through songs,  poems, letters and anecdotes. This presentation also combines humour and music with the poignancy of the Gallipoli and the Western Front.  Hunt’s performance directly supports Year 9’s study of the topic Australians at War.

Louisa Reynolds and Jo-anne O'Brien | Organiser