Musical thunder to roll into Geelong

The acclaimed Australian concert drama Rolling Thunder Vietnam – Songs That Defined A Generation is making its return to stage, stopping off at the Geelong Arts Centre on March 13 and 14 for three shows.

Inspired by interviews with Vietnam War veterans, letters and research, the production – written by Bryce Hallett – has been praised for its use of music and video footage to deliver emotive storytelling.

Under the musical direction of Chong Lim, it’s no surprise that audiences and critics alike are barging through the doors to see it live for the first time since 2016.

Announcing the 2020 season of Rolling Thunder Vietnam, producer Rebecca Blake said the show had formed a “special relationship” with audiences since its humble beginnings.

“The great songs of the era and the passionate story of resilience and love at the heart if Rolling Thunder struck a chord with audiences throughout Australia.

“Since 2016, many people have kept asking when the production would return.

“The incredibly emotional responses from the veterans and their families have been overwhelming, and it’s an honour to bring the show that has come to mean so much to them, back to the stage.

“The production appeals to a wide audience and young audiences love the music and storytelling as much as anyone.”

Rolling Thunder Vietnam features rock classics from the ‘60s and ‘70s, including “Fortunate Son”, “All Along The Watchtower”, “The Letter”, “Help Me Make It Through The Night”, “Killing Me Softly” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, with the cast comprising Toby Francis (Once, Kinky Boots), Tom Oliver (Velvet) and Matthew Pearce (Rent, Calamity Jane).

Show times at the Geelong Arts Centre include 7.30pm on March 13 and 14 and a matinee on March 14 (2pm). To get yours, head to geelongartscentre.org.au.