Jennifer Rich-Neal
Sep 27 2006 12:00AM
Thanks to textbooks, Web sites, and Hollywood, most Americans have a general impression of the endeavors our country went through during the World War II era.
However, these sources of information are not as dear as the testimonies of the patrons of WWII. Experiences that can be shared verbally by those who participated in an aspect of the war have a priceless authenticity that this project is now trying to capture.
As a learning-centered college, PJC has sought to teach through integrating real life experiences outside the classroom. PJC has teamed up with Azalea Trace Retirement Community to bring forth a WWII experience that is truly unique. PJC will present the production “South Pacific,” scheduled to run Nov. 9-19.
Azalea Trace contributors provide a distinctive backdrop for the production. Students in Carlos Goebels’ interpersonal communications class have been interviewing the residents about their place in the war. Veterans provide accounts of warfare and other survivors recall keeping hope alive on the home front.
“I truly believe that our partnership with Azalea Trace has provided valuable hands on learning for my students,” Goebels said.
Rodney Whatley, director of theatre, describes the interviews as a “memory project.” The finished product of these interviews will be displayed in an exhibition of 4’x3′ gallery quality photographs and texts chronicling the memories of WWII survivors in the Pensacola area that relate to the facts behind the fictional events being portrayed onstage in “South Pacific.”
The value in this project perhaps has been the bonding between two vastly different generations. Throughout the interviews, the residents have enjoyed sharing their experiences and have added an emotional appeal that can not be recreated in Hollywood. ÿThe students have been shocked by the frank “confessions” and a bit intimidated at times by what they have heard, Goebels said.
With all of the time and effort going into this project, South Pacific is sure to be a success. More coverage on this project will be provided as production roles on. Other departments and their efforts will be profiled in coming issues leading up to the opening day of “South Pacific.”