Review: 'Someone Will Remember Us' is Powerful, Memorable Theater

The decades-long war between the United States and Iraq resulted in the deaths of thousands of American soldiers and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, damaging our country's reputation on a global scale. But those of us who only heard news reports and updates from the White House, and perhaps forgot that our troops were still a presence there, may not ever know what transpired on Iraqi soil.

Trinity Repertory Company's playwright in residence, Deborah Salem Smith – together with resident company member Charlie Thurston and Dr. Michelle Cruz, who is a singer/songwriter, curator and arts advocate – have crafted a powerful night of relevant theatre that begs to be seen and heard.

A follow up to Salem Smith's 2006 play "Boots on the Ground," which was a retelling of true stories of Rhode Islanders deployed in Iraq, "Someone Will Remember Us" gives us the broader scope of not only U.S. veterans, but Gold Star family members, Iraqi civilians, and refugees.

Eight actors, performing on a stage flanked by sliding glass partitions, rows of seats, and lightboxes highlighting dates, places, and times, relate their truly personal tales of tragedy, displacement, confusion, loss, and grief. As the actors introduce themselves, we are immediately immersed in their stories: Each tells them with emotion and passionate resolve.

Veteran company members Rachel Warren and Stephen Thorne play the Gold Star family, parents of a daughter killed in action. Returning performers Allison Jones, Dereks Thomas, and Jihan Haddad inhabit a soldier, a veteran/refugee, and a refugee, respectively. Newcomers Ashley Aldarondo (Angelica), Josephine Moshiri Elwood (Nadje, Wafaa), and Jade Ziane (Kamal) are a welcome addition to this cast. All three are fantastic and worth watching for their heartfelt portrayals. They are a compliment to the already strong cast; each seems at home on this stage.

Salem Smith and Thurston with Cruz have cast a wide net in their many interviews from local folks directly affected by the Iraq war, and what was chosen gives voice to experiences that we may never have heard if not for this insightful and relevant piece.

Directed by the deft hand of Christopher Windom ("Fences," "Fairview") and Michael Yussef Greene (Wilbury's "Noise"), these tales unfold seamlessly and powerfully.

This premiere is a mirror to the incredible talent at Trinity. Tanya Orellana's scenic design is complimented by imaginative lighting by Emma Deane. Each actor has you in their hands. This is the story of the human condition. Fair warning: This production packs an incredibly emotional punch.

"Someone Will Remember You" will not easily be forgotten by anyone who crosses the threshold of this theatre.

"Someone Will Remember You" is running through February 23 at Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street, Providence, RI 02903. For information or tickets, call 401-351-4242 or visit www.trinityrep.com.