1000 Islands Playhouse: Jake’s Gift a Love Letter to Veterans.
Julia Mackey as Jake Photo: Tim Matheson
Jake’s Gift,” a one-woman show written and performed by Julia Mackey, is a powerful tribute to Canadian veterans, specifically those who participated in the World War II D-Day landing on Juno Beach. Inspired by her trip to Normandy in 2004 for the 60th anniversary of D-Day, Miss Mackey and Director Dirk Van Stralen created Juno Productions to present and tour this piece across Canada. As Americans we hear mostly about Omaha Beach. It’s good to be reminded that our neighbors to the North also had a major part in the landings. The two main characters are Jake, a veteran in his 70s who has returned for his first visit to Juno Beach since the war and Isabelle, a lively and inquisitive 10 year-old French girl. As they gradually become friends, Jake is finally able to come to terms with his past.
Julia Mackey relies mostly on body language and her voice to delineate the believable character changes between the irrepressible Isabelle and the initially grumpy Jake. Using only a bench, a small table and a suitcase she makes both the story and relationship easy to follow. She’s ably assisted by Gerald King’s sensitive lighting, especially in the scene where Jake puts on his uniform jacket.
Perhaps my favorite giggle scene early on is Jake’s attempt to explain a knock-knock joke to Isabelle. Then of course there’s the scene where Jake dances to a Sinatra song – a lovely combination of nostalgia and humor.
Director Van Stralen and Miss Mackey have used popular songs of the period to surround and infuse the piece. “Jake’s Gift” grows to a sensitive and moving conclusion without ever becoming maudlin.
Veterans on both sides of the border should see this play. I defy anyone who’s a veteran or who knows one not to be moved by “Jake’s Gift.”
“Jake’s Gift” in the Firehall Theatre through July 26 Tkts:613-382-7020
“Jake’s Gift” by Julia Mackey Produced by Juno Productions, Presented by the 1000 Islands Playhouse
Performer: Julia Mackey
Director: Dirk Van Stralen
Lighting: Gerald King