A Review of Billy Bishop Goes to War

by Gerry Roe

Amana - At the talk-back after the first performance of this production, one of the first questions from the audience asked if Billy Bishop was a real person. As the actor responded (and as I knew from a little preparatory reading), Billy Bishop was indeed a real person, a Canadian pilot who flew fighter planes in World War I and again in World War II. Bishop lived from 1894 to 1956 and was Canada’s leading flying ace.

Billy Bishop survives in a play by John Gray in collaboration with Eric Peterson who provided music as accompaniment and as songs. I have to admit I didn’t expect this. I had anticipated Billy singing songs of the period such as It’s a Long Way to Tipperary and, perhaps, the Canadian national anthem (years before the current anthem, O Canada). Instead, there was musical support brilliantly provided by Andrew Crowe, accompanist and narrator. Crowe’s musical talents are impressive, not only on the piano but on the harmonica and violin. He also supports Vaughan Irving (Billy Bishop) in some of the songs. Irving and Crowe bring Billy Bishop vividly to life on the tiny stage of Old Creamery Theatre’s Studio Theatre.

Billy Bishop Opens April 9

Vaughn Irving as Billy Bishop. Photo by Lily Allen-Duenas

Amana- Billy Bishop Goes To War opens April 9 and runs through April 26 on the Old Creamery’s Studio Stage, with shows on Thursdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm and on Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. There will be a special Saturday matinee on April 11 at 2:00 pm. There will not be an evening performance on April 11. The Old Creamery Theatre’s Studio Stage is and intimate venue that features classics and new, exciting, and fresh material as well located in Middle Amana at 3023 220th Trail.

From a rowdy, unruly, and impetuous youth to a respectable, venerated veteran, Billy Bishop Goes To War follows a boy’s journey into manhood. Canadian WWI fighter pilot, Billy Bishop, defies all expectations and becomes a top ace — a “ hero in the sky.” With laudable historical accuracy and catchy tunes, this play illustrates Bishop’s intimate thoughts about his odyssey through the turbulent trials and tribulations of war. Billy Bishop Goes To War is written by John Gray and Eric Peterson. The show stars Vaughn Irving as Billy Bishop and Andrew Crowe as the narrator and pianist.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $18.50 for students. Call the box office for tickets and information at 319-622-6262 or go here.