Soldier

SOLDIER tells the story of a German officer trapped on the banks of the River Styx. Heinrich Weiss, is desperately searching for coins so he and his men can secure passage across the waters… coins the audience members have been handed as they walked in the door. In the pursuit of his objective, Heinrich will reveal his own personal history, as well as the origins and facets of man’s love affair with war: the heroism, the glory, and the honor. But he will also delve into war’s nastier side: the blood, the hatred, and the murder of other human beings. By the end of his attempt, Heinrich will get more than he bargained for; he will have to confront his own personal demons and defend his actions and the actions of his unit, now perceived as horrendous crimes in the annals of history.

Why is war so appealing? Why do we forgive certain acts of violence, but not others? Is it possible to feel compassion for the Enemy? What do we risk by allowing ourselves to feel that compassion, and what do we lose by withholding it?