OREM — The wars are centuries apart, but the issues facing soldiers in combat remain basically the same, said the cast member who plays the old man in "The Red Badge of Courage."
"It's not a comedy," said Donald Robinson. "Is it relevant? I certainly think so. The same issues have arisen for many, many years."
Robinson said he's encouraging his own family to attend the play and not just to see Grandpa play a part.
"It's based on events that happened in the Civil War, but the issues are quite relevant today," he said.
Steve Watts, who has often participated in Civil War re-enactments, plays Fleming's best friend, Jim Conklin, who dies because Fleming decides to flee.
"I think it's a really good story. He (Fleming) thinks he's braver than he is," Watts said. Watts said Fleming is simply not prepared for the struggles ahead.
Originally directed by guest director Fred Baehr, the play will be directed through its run by David Whitlock and Mindy B. Young. (Baehr left after he refused to delete swear words involving deity from the script.)
Baehr applauds author Stephen Crane's work as the first piece of American war literature that is realistic as it shows the confusion and pointlessness of war. Most work prior to that time idealized the Civil War as a great epic. Crane punctured that view and allows his reader to experience the frustration, fear and ultimate bravery of a soldier who learns to survive, conquer his cowardice and get through the war. During the play, Henry talks to an old man who, in reality, is the older version of himself.
Baehr wanted the play to be as real as possible, so he contacted local military enthusiast Keith Renstrom, who loaned his collection of Civil War uniforms and rifles.
Baehr applauds the abundant talent he found.
"The pool of talent here is so highly developed," he said. "I found young teenagers who could not only act but also sing, dance and play multiple instruments. The amazing talent is what brought me here, and I'm really pleased with the performers who auditioned."
The play is based on Crane's classic novel about a young man who heads off to war without fully understanding what he will be facing.
The play is part of the SCERA's effort to mark Veterans Day and the troops today who are fighting for freedom far away.
"We selected "The Red Badge of Courage" as a major part of our Celebration of veterans at SCERA," said Robertson. Also planned is a free USO Spectacular show Saturday, Nov. 11, at 11:30 a.m. with military displays on the lawn and in the lobby.
If you go . . .
What: "Red Badge of Courage"
When: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 3-13; 2 p.m. Saturday matinee
Where: SCERA Center for the Arts, 745 S. State, Orem
Cost: $10/$8 children
Phone: 225-2569
Web:www.scera.org
E-mail: haddoc@desnews.com