Fly Boy: There and Back Again
Tells the compelling true story of John Edward Tayler. From young pilot to WWII veteran, the journey of this Edmonton dreamer inspires us with courage and loyalty. Connect the lessons of history to current global events. Join this remarkable journey that celebrates the human spirit and the Canadian experience.
Fly Boy is an important story. It's a glimpse into Canadian history, local history, and personal storytelling. The venue is cozy enough for this show, and while the solo presenter projects her voice well, this production could've really used a microphone (and more audio from the tapes --- this was an obvious missed opportunity). A decent work that could use additional development for future plays (or radio documentaries).
The story was real and impressive from the point of view of the family and their history in the war. The pacing was too slow. Having lived through many family members involved in the war, this show did not really resonate or give me more insight.
An amazing story of courage and perseverance is told by the daughter of an Edmonton native who served in WW 2. Unfortunately it is presented as the telling of a family story. The presentation was read from a handwritten yellow pad. There are no sets and a few artifacts are used to “set the scene”. If it were a storyteller festival it might rate a bit better but not at Fringe. Sound system was totally inadequate and was shut off. Maximum ticket price was charged for a very amateur show that didn’t have sets, rehearsal and didnt need to travel. Unless you are a WW 2 nerd (like me) I’d suggest you take a pass.
Great and important story. Delivery needed a director to be impactful.
The ultimate history buff show. If you love the intricate details of tragedies past— especially when told from an individual’s own perspective— you will certainly enjoy Fly Boy: From There and Back Again.
Told by Devon Tayler, this show details the experiences of her father, John Edward Tayler before and during the Second World War. Backed by a magnificent set, Devon acts as the mouthpiece for various letters sent to and from her father, filling in the empty moments with her own script. One of the best elements of this show was the way progression within John’s story was displayed through hanging outfits. This shifting backdrop acts as the eye candy of the show— something to scour as Devon tells the story of her father.
The power of this story cannot be denied. It is one of survival and resilience unlike anything most Canadians will ever experience and a testament to the perseverance of human kind. However, I found myself most engaged by the moments Devon strayed from her father’s story towards experiences more personal to herself. Her brief recollection of doing commando training with her father was a highlight within the greater presentation. Someone more in tune with the events of history would most likely be more enthralled by John Edward Tayler’s experiences than I was, so my qualms with the engagement of the show probably stem from a general disinterest in history. Still, Fly Boy: From There and Back Again could be served by creating a more engaging atmosphere.
This show was not for me, but that does not mean you should pass on it! Fly Boy: From There and Back Again is a beautiful tale of humanity in the face of the least humane and will be completely satisfactory for anyone with a deep interest in history.