“The stories and insights revealed in this docudrama are vital and ought to be heard far and wide...No matter whether you’re a die-hard neoconservative or a stalwart peace activist, it’s important to remember that, until the killer robots arrive, actual human beings fight America’s wars. Their perspectives need to be heard now more than ever, especially as the number of veterans in the decision-making class diminishes, and social media memes replace real experience in the room where it happens.”
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“It's a stunning group portrait, each person's story filled with details that place him or her on a set of coordinates not found on the current map of red-vs.-blue conflicts. Some of them enlisted to escape home lives marked by poverty and/or emotional chaos. Others wanted to finance their college educations. Still others -- quite a few, in fact -- were motivated to act after the events of 9/11. It's safe to say that none were ready for what they would find overseas; each account is different, and each is fascinating.”
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" 'War Words' offers an important reminder of the sacrifices that the few, the proud, and the faithful make for the other 99 percent of us. If the play is not as wholly successful as one would hope, ultimately, the production reveals that when it comes to war, words are just not enough."
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“This is a majestic ensemble work; words, direction, acting, choreography, and lighting congealing to enhance the stories but never overpower their truths...You may or may not have served, but for both this presentation is for you, and even more so with the wars we now face. Afterwards, it will require something of you. It will require you to examine yourself, to reach out to all those around you, and to touch all that you love. It is a must-see.”
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“ ‘War Words’, assembled by Michelle Kholos Brooks from the words of some dozen veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, is simplicity itself, and all the stronger for it. The show thrusts the audience into combat and its devastating aftereffects. You may quibble here and there with the presentation and the choices of what’s included and what isn’t, but it’s unlikely that you’ll leave A.R.T./New York unmoved.”
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