PHOTO: Robert Neel, Gus Palma, and Keenan Pasqua are among the ten actors portraying World War I soldiers in “All Is Calm”. Courtesy Thingamajig Theatre.
In the serene embrace of the holiday season, Thingamajig Theatre Company unveils its latest production, “All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914,” an arresting theatrical retelling that beckons audiences to delve into the resonant echoes of history. The production offers — amidst the seasonal fervor — a poignant, thought-provoking respite, delving into a remarkable moment of humanity during the turmoil of war.
The show will be performed at the Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts December 15 – 29.
Based on a true testament etched into the annals of World War I, this production is a gripping mosaic, weaving together letters, songs, and accounts of soldiers who partook in an unprecedented ceasefire during the infamous trench warfare. The narrative moves beyond mere dramatization, fostering an intimate connection with the past, allowing audiences to tread upon the sacred ground where enemies became brethren, if only for a fleeting moment under the aegis of Christmas.
The genesis of this compelling portrayal originates from the fertile collaboration between writer Peter Rothstein and vocal arrangers Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach. Drawing upon actual letters exchanged by soldiers and the stirring harmonies of European Christmas carols, the production resonates with authenticity, eclipsing of conventions typical storytelling.
After garnering acclaim across diverse platforms, “All Is Calm” achieved a notable milestone with a compelling run on PBS. Its transition to the off-Broadway stage further solidified its impact, drawing critical acclaim and garnering widespread recognition for its evocative storytelling and the ability to resonate deeply with diverse audiences.
What makes this rendition particularly compelling is its universal appeal. While history aficionados will relish its meticulous portrayal of a pivotal moment in wartime history, the production offers a narrative that resonates with the human spirit irrespective of generational divides. A unique Seasonal offering that is sure to be memorable, it is an invitation to not just witness, but to reflect upon the essence of compassion and unity amid tumultuous times — a narrative both timeless, and timely.
Thingamajig Theatre Company presents “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” rated PG, playing at Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts December 15 – 29. Tickets and show information are available at 970-731-7469 and at pagosacenter.org
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