As most of you probably already know by now, during World War I, hundreds (thousands actually applied, 450 were trained and 233 served abroad) of American women were enlisted and served as bilingual telephone operators on the front lines. Their tireless efforts helped turn the tide of the war, but upon their return home they were denied Veterans’ rights—told they were contractors to the U.S. Army. Between 1927 and 1977, 20 congressional bills were presented but it was only in 1977 that the long campaign for equal rights was successful and a bill sworn into law. Barely 20 of the women survived to witness this hard-won battle for equality and recognition.

We have chosen the intimate LaCroix Black Box Theatre as the space to share this epic story. Like the chorus of Shakespeare’s Henry V, our cast of brilliant actors asks you to use your imagination to travel back in time as they bring to life this story you may only have heard and read about. It has been an absolute honor to go on this journey with this cast and to watch them discover the humanity in these women (and men).

Choosing to work on this material right now—this story of war, bravery, and overcoming overwhelming odds—it is impossible not to be reminded of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and all the wars that persist worldwide. Our hearts are with those facing unimaginable violence, tragedy, and uncertainty. May we all continue to “answer the call” to do our part to fight for and give voice to underrepresented and marginalized communities at home and abroad.

–Brittany Bara, director