When a writer and literature professor agrees to have a beer with Canadian soldiers so they can tell her about their experiences in Afghanistan, she has no idea it marks the beginning of a major journey. At first, the soldiers play the tough guys, but trust gradually builds and tongues loosen. They take us with them into war zones, sharing stories that are funny, harsh, and deeply moving—stories of camaraderie, exploding minefields, fear, and regret. Their testimonies will shake the playwright to the core, right down to her most deeply held convictions.
For this project, Roxanne Bouchard immersed herself in the world of the Canadian Armed Forces, meeting some thirty soldiers from eight different trades, listening to their stories, visiting military bases, and confronting her own values and prejudices. How does one live with the memories and traumas of war? This is one of the central questions raised by the text, which also reflects on the powerful encounters that can occur when we dare to open ourselves up to others.
Before being adapted for the stage, the play began as a research project by Roxanne Bouchard, which led to the publication of the book 5 Bullets to the Head: War Stories, released by Québec Amérique. The production is directed by François Bernier. The artistic director of Théâtre DuBunker, the company producing the show, will also step in on stage to replace Éric Robidoux, who was part of the original creation but will be absent from this revival.
Date
20 h
Location
169, rue Champlain, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield