Voice Of America

In preparation for the upcoming 4th of July weekend, the Skokie Theatre is presenting Voice of America: Saluting American Popular Music During the Wartime Years , a musical and historical journey through the major conflicts of the twentieth century, as both a salute to our military personnel and an exploration of the role popular music has played in our wartime politics. "The idea of the show evolved shortly after the Gulf War," says Voice of America producer and performer Jeanne Scherkenbach. "It occurred to me what a huge role our popular music played in expressing the public's political opinion."

In addition to Scherkenbach, Voice of America features the vocal talents of Joel Kopischke, Rachel Renee, Matt Richardson, and Carolyn Wehner, and includes music from the eras of World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the 1991 Gulf War. Selections will be presented chronologically "[to track] the swing in public opinion", says Scherkenbach, from the patriotism of the World Wars, through the pop culture neglect of Korea, the protests of Vietnam, and back again to patriotism during the Gulf War, culminating in a musical salute to the five branches of the Armed Forces. Songs will include "You're A Grand Old Flag", "Tie A Yellow Ribbon", "I'll Be Seeing You", "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy", and many others.

Aware of the potential touchiness of the subject matter, the producers of Voice of America also wish to make it clear that they have no political agenda. Says Scherkenbach, "Voice of America makes no judgments, only observations...how America, even through different voices, is near and dear to each of us."

Voice of America is being held June 27 at 7pm in the Skokie Theatre, 7924 N. Lincoln Avenue, Skokie. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and can be purchased online at www.skokietheatre.com or by calling 847-677-7761.

Luke Heiden
Contributing Writer