The POW and the Girl  is both Riveting &  Surprising!!  

An original new play based in part on true experiences of writer Katrina Wood and her father British character actor Percy Herbert who was both in the Japanese POW camp and built the Bridge on the River Kwai and then went on to be cast in the movie with Alec Guinness at the start of his extensive film career ) 

Set in Punk Era  London in the 1980s this story also has deep roots in World War II and the Japanese Changi Prison. Playwright Wood tells of a grandfather, the POW, who survived the notorious Changi prison complex known as the Death Camp. He lives with his granddaughter, the Girl, in working-class northern London.

Its a time of fast-moving change in Britain!  Video games and punk rock have revolutionized pop culture.! Women have made their way into the work force in great numbers  notably the strong-willed Margaret Thatcher, who has just taken the helm of the United Kingdom.

Despite the change of modernization in the 80s, mental health treatment remains in its adolescence. Little is known in particular regarding treatment of veterans with Post Traumatic stress syndrome  at the time often referred to by its historic name, shell shock.

Haunted by memories of the war and his former life in London, the POW exhibits classic symptoms of PTSD. He grapples with his demons at the same time he has thrust upon him the responsibility of supporting and protecting his granddaughter, ( at least he sees it that way) !  a college student. The pair are left alone after the death of the Girls mother, his daughter.

The Girl looks to her future, full of hopes and dreams. The POW remains wounded and embittered. The challenges are great for both characters and their familial relationship. Woods drama suggests that war trauma is not just relegated to veterans but is often  indiscriminately passed down through the generations. 

This play is one not to be missed! 

Both shocking and unexpected, this play is full of  humor and heart  Woven with amazing War time music and Punk music from the '80 s ! The POW and the Girl unveils the extraordinary courage and resilience demonstrated by families who find a way through the harrowing maze of PTSD!  This story touches the lives of many in unimagined ways.