Canadian War Museum offers first public screenings in Ottawa of Billy Bishop Goes to War

Ottawa, Ontario, November 16, 2011—Come see the movie that has the critics talking! Billy Bishop Goes to War, based on the celebrated stage play written and composed by John Gray with Eric Peterson, will be presented at the Canadian War Museum from November 19 to 27. This is the first public screening of the movie in Ottawa following its premiere at the War Museum on October 24, hosted by Veterans Affairs Canada.

The film—directed by Barbara Willis Sweete—stars Canadian acting legend Eric Peterson as Billy Bishop, the First World War flying ace from Owen Sound. In this updated version of the stage production, an aging Bishop—nearing the end of his life—reflects on his wartime exploits through poignant recollections and raucous songs. Peterson, along with John Gray, also plays a host of supporting characters.

 “Billy Bishop Goes to War is not just about historical events, but also about the joys, struggles and sorrows of a man who was shaped by war,” said James Whitham, acting Director General of the Canadian War Museum. “Presentations of these kinds of personal stories help us understand the impact of war on us as individuals.”

Since its stage debut in 1978, Billy Bishop Goes to War has become arguably Canada’s most widely produced play, with numerous revivals and several international runs. Variety magazine described Billy Bishop Goes to War as “at once impressively polished and pared to essentials.” The Toronto Sun compared the film to “a fine wine, or a shot of aged Canadian whiskey, [that] is tasty, tart, pleasing, with a great finish.” The Ottawa Citizen hailed Peterson’s performance as “a tour de force.”

“We are honoured that Billy Bishop Goes to War has found a home at the Canadian War Museum. There is no more fitting venue to pay tribute to a Canadian hero who was, above all, an everyman,” affirms producer Sandra Cunningham.

The screenings of Billy Bishop Goes to War will take place in the Barney Danson Theatre at the Canadian War Museum between November 19 and November 27. Times can be found at www.warmuseum.ca. Tickets are $8 for adults; $7 for seniors and students; and $6 for members. Tickets are available by calling 819-776-8600 or by visiting the Museum Box Office.

The Canadian War Museum is Canada’s national museum of military history. Its mission is to promote public understanding of Canada’s military history in its personal, national, and international dimensions.

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Information (media):

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