Practicalities

The performance, consisting of 7 songs and a poem with a slideshow of  around 300 images, takes about 30 minutes.

The discussion that follows is open-ended, Ten minutes would be the minimum and if time is available 30 minutes is not unusual.

At some public performances I have been able to bring somebody with appropriate historical knowledge to take part in the discussion. In developing this project I have worked with Brendan Murphy, who was conducting doctoral research into the nature of the German army in WW1 and has a rich knowledge of the history of conflict in the 20th Century (Brendan has now completed his PhD and returned to the USA but he taught me a lot).

I’m happy to discuss how the performance might be used to complement teaching or debate relevant to the host organisation.

Where appropriate, especially for an evening performance, I can perform a second set of more cheerful songs, not related to war, to round off the event, perhaps with my musical partner in Break a Leg! Karen Hisom. The main performance includes some disturbing material and I feel it is often good to relieve the serious mood before sending people away.

Technical Requirements are quite simple, I use a laptop computer, digital projector and screen. If a suitable projector and screen are not available I can bring them with me. I’ll need a power socket within 3 metres of the point where I am performing.

For small audiences up to 30 people I can usually perform without amplification.  If the audience is larger I’ll want to discuss whether amplification is needed and whether the venue has a suitable PA system.

Set up time is needed. Without amplification I will need 45 minutes before the event to ensure everything is ready to go. With amplification I’ll need more time.

Money is not my priority in doing this work. As a retired academic I’m happy to do it for my own satisfaction. Help with travel expenses is always welcome.

At public performances I usually make a collection for the War Child Charity, whose aim is to help children damaged by war to have a more normal childhood.