"Pieces
of War" by
Kenny Carnes
No words can relay the experiences endured while in a combat environment. But, through public performance and open recognition we attempt to capture meaning in order to mend the wounded warrior. Written largely in rhapsodic verse "Pieces of War" is a one-man show delivering a rapid fire cadence of rhyme and rhythm to weave a portfolio of stories from three generations of American war fighters.
As a son returns home from Iraq his grandfather recalls his victories at Normandy while a father becomes lost in his voiceless shame trying to forget Vietnam. Inspired by true stories, Carnes live theatrical performance makes meaning through conflict, captures understanding through provocative contemplation and unites audiences in common dialogue surrounding the universal journey of the hero in all.
Interactive Discussion
During a recent post show discussion a Vietnam Veteran ("Sgt. Jon Doe") was able to disclose his traumatic wartime experience for the first time in 35 years! "Sgt. Jon Doe" was so physically shaken from the catharsis energized by "Pieces of War" that it marked the beginning of his therapeutic process. Thanks to the well trained staff like those at Brown University men and women like "Sgt. Doe" begin to heal from the embracing support of a caring, listening community.
Our post show interaction forum invites soldiers to dialogue with audience and artists so theatre can become a gateway to community recognition, healing and personal reintegration. Our partner programs in attendance offer unique training options helping soldiers and their families to reunite and readjust upon home coming.
"We do not fight to end the war."
"We do not fight to bring them home."
"Our fight begins when they get here."
Workshop: Veteran Readjustment
Many of our war veterans experience an often silent, but always serious readjustment process upon their return home from the warfront. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to reestablish oneself back into the fabric of family, the workforce and the social position. Participation in intensive workshops, trainings and extended programs provides veterans, soldiers and family members an alternative to the traditional combat decompression process. Designed by combat vets for combat vets as an effective training and experiential retreat, facilitators bring those enrolled to a new level of managing life, career and family roles. Working with other combat veterans soldiers will strengthen coping skills, secure re-alignment and foster leadership for post-war recovery periods.
"Last Words" by Kenny Carnes
An original play based on the final thoughts emanating from the hearts and minds of America's executed this solo-play incorporates an anthology of words, stories, and emotions punctuated by a diverse collection of actual last word testimony from various death row inmates.
You—the jury—judge the final appeal of one man as he walks the edge and echoes the voices of the many who have faced abuse, violence and the undetermined fate he now faces. Inmate 447990 tells jurors his story of murder trying to convince listeners that any justice is realized when peace is discovered. Is he right? Will eye-for-eye bring resolution? Can capital punishment deter future crime?
Workshop: Conflict Resolution
Performances of Last Words generate discussions about the cycle of violence and how to effectively manage conflicts in social situations. This workshop examines conflict in your culture allowing participants to realize destructive behavior patterns and transcend existing organic tensions into positive teams that effectively collaborate and change the way we view and handle daily interaction.
(c) 2007 by Kenny Carnes & Company