Entertainment
27 March, 2025
Play to mark 80 years since war
ATHERTON Performing Arts is commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II with the multi-award-winning play “The Shoe-Horn Sonata” by John Misto.
Based on the stories of actual survivors, “The Shoe-Horn Sonata” gives unique insight into the lives of women living in Japanese POW camps during World War II.
Bridie and Sheila take part in a 1995 documentary about their wartime experiences. They had first met during the invasion of Singapore when Bridie was an Australian army nurse and Sheila was an English schoolgirl.
Although they became best friends at camp they surprisingly have not kept in touch over the next 50 years.
The play is about Sheila and Bridie’s relationship. It tells of camp stories, sonatas, secrets and a shoe-horn… What happened in camp to make for the friends’ seeming estrangement?
This tender, funny and compassionate look at camp life and afterwards gives a whole new insight into war, love and human relationships.
Directed by Anne Wilson, the play features veteran actors Kirsty Veron and Jacqui Stephens as Sheila and Bridie, assisted by Peter Whalley-Thompson as the interviewer.
This historical play depicts war and racial themes. Parental guidance is recommended for young viewers.
The Shoe-Horn Sonata will be performed six times at the APA Theatre, Atherton between 28 March and 6 April.
There are drinks and nibbles on opening night from 7pm.
There are evening performances on 28-29 March, as well as on 3-4 April starting at 7.30pm.
Entry is discounted by $5 on 3 April.
There are two matinee showings on Sunday 30 March and Sunday 6 April starting at 2.30pm.
Concession and student discounts are also available. Bookings can be made by visiting Tableland Books, Vernon Street Atherton or by going online at www.athertonperformingarts.com.au
