Fifteen years after enduring multiple combat deployments to Afghanistan, which left him haunted by paralyzing anxieties, frayed nerves, and relentless bouts of insomnia, an Army and Marine Corps veteran brings his post-war experience to life through a captivating musical stage performance featured at the prestigious 2023 Hollywood Fringe Festival in Los Angeles.
Robert W. Mitchell, the author of the book “A Single Vibration,” which chronicles his firsthand experiences during and after his deployments to northern and southern Afghanistan in the late 2000s, expressed the importance in telling this story . “Sharing these stories does wonders for veterans,” he explained. “We often hear someone saying, ‘thank you for your service,’ but to hear directly from veterans who have lived and experienced the realities of war is incredibly important.”
Mitchell’s work revolves around a soldier who is persistently haunted by the sounds and vibrations of combat, even years after leaving the theater of operations. Throughout the narrative, he recounts the harrowing events and experiences that may have triggered these haunting sensations, while also delving into strategies to overcome them.
The performance showcases a remarkable fusion of original compositions, a masterful performance, superb directing, and the invaluable guidance of a professional dramaturge. The result is a production that truly captivates its audience, offering a poignant and authentic glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of veterans.
Actor Bechir Sylvain, who portrays Mitchell in the recorded web series production, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful project. “It’s always a great honor when I get to do art that aims to heal and bring light on topics that are ignored and not talked about,” he said. “This is why I do what I do. I really hope the piece touches someone.”
Mitchell’s story is just one of several episodes written by veterans for the “So Proudly We Hailed” musical web series, which is produced and licensed for live performances by New Musicals, Inc. (NMI). This remarkable web series honors veterans by dramatizing and musicalizing their stories, allowing their voices to be heard in their own words.
The inclusion of veterans’ stories at the 2023 Hollywood Fringe Festival not only serves as a platform for artistic expression but also as a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging the gap between the military and civilian communities. It offers a unique opportunity for audiences to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who serve their country.
Overall, NMI’s presence at the festival exemplifies the transformative impact that art and theater can have in honoring and amplifying the voices of veterans, shedding light on their experiences, and fostering a greater sense of understanding and empathy within society.
