"We Were Here", GIs in Dorset, 1944

The fascinating "We Were Here" exhibition opened at the Dorchester Arts Centre today (stories about African American GIs posted to Dorset in 1944, and their legacy). The research was carried out by Louisa Adjoa Parker (co-editor of "Dorset Voices").

State of Play Arts presents

GI Joe in Dorset

"GI JOE IN DORSET tells the story of Joe, an African American GI who finds himself in rural Dorset shortly before D-Day 1944. Surprisingly, the biggest threat to Joe comes not from the locals or the Germans but from his fellow US troops. The play uncovers a spirit of openness and generosity amongst many locals towards the visiting African Americans that was sadly not matched by the white American GIs. It’s also a love story, with echoes of Romeo and Juliet, where young love tries to cross man-made barriers".

A powerful tale of war, prejudice and redemptive love that draws on documented stories to reveal secrets, lies, laughter and hope.

“...thought-provoking and moving...brings unexplored history alive”

Curator, Priest’s House Museum, Wimborne

www.stateofplayarts.co.uk
Tickets £9 / £7

To book tickets online click here

Tickets also available from Dorchester Arts 01305 266926

or Tourist Information Centre 267992

1944 WE WERE HERE: AFRICAN AMERICAN GIs IN DORSET EXHIBITION

Monday 7 - Friday 18 October

Dorchester Arts Centre 10 - 4 daily. Closed Sunday. Free

+ WORKSHOP WITH LOUISA ADJOA PARKER

Friday 18 October 11am - 12.30pm

"To coincide with Black History Month we have an original exhibition telling the experience of the African American soldiers stationed in Dorset in 1944. The exhibition has photographs and testimonies of Gi's, and those who knew them, researched by British-Ghanaian poet and historian Louisa Adjoa Parker and documents the moving and often hidden stories of this crucial time in history. It was commissioned by local charity DEED (Development Education in Dorset) in partnership with Walford Mill Crafts and the Priest’s House Museum, Wimborne".

On Friday 18 October 11am - 12.30pm there is a free workshop with Louisa Adjoa Parker to further explore the exhibition and the importance of recording our memories.

To book a workshop place ring 01305 266926