G & I - Going into Battle with Gertrude Lawrence

Synopsis

The play is set in the spring of 1944. Gertrude Lawrence, a star on both sides of the Atlantic, flies in from America to rehearse for an ENSA managed tour to entertain the British and American troops fighting in Europe. She will not only prepare for the dangers of performing close to the front line of battle, but prior to this will have to tackle her own personal demons at returning home, after so long an absence.

Our Review:

15 April 2009

Anton Burge’s G&I is a nostalgic Second World War comedy musical, and whilst it could never exactly described as cutting-edge, nevertheless features a selection of engaging performances and no shortage of laughs. Led by Anita Harris as British-born but American-emigrated actress/singer Gertrude Lawrence, the company of three carry the show with both accomplished comic timing and pitch-perfect vocals.

Separated from her soldier spouse and finding herself in London for the first time in a long time, Gertrude adds a sorely needed bit of joie de vivre as she arrives to prepare for an E.N.S.A. Tour.  As an ageing yet still mischievous actress, she provides guidance and a new sense of hope to Grover, the 27-year-old American soldier slated as her pianist, with whom she soon forms a close bond.

As Gertrude, Anita Harris displays all the confidence and charm that one would expect from the late star (it's almost unbelievable that this energetic leading lady is ...

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Latest User Review

david - 9 April 2009:

Anita Harris sang well, swore well and brought Getrude Lawrence to life in ENSA in 1944. Ably assisted by Brenda Longman and Ben Stock a capable pianist and actor and positively directed by Ninon Jerome. An enjoyable evening worth a visit to Hampstead....

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