Play depicts story of WWII pilot

Ponder Anew: A WWII Warrior's Story," will be presented 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25 at The Arts Center of Cannon County.

The play is adapted from a memoir of Lt. Herschel D. Ponder, a fighter pilot who flew P-47 Thunderbolts in Europe. Lt. Ponder is the father of actor/musician Carol Ponder, who along with Robert Kiefer, performs this play with music.
In his memoir, Lt. Ponder wrote of his fears, his joys, and his struggle to remain human during and after an inhumane war. By turns warm, funny, tragic and poignant, Ponder Anew premiered as part of the Heritage Artists" Retreat Series at the Historic Asolo Theater in Sarasota, FL and has been presented in over 30 venues in five states including The Monteagle Assemby and Middle Tennessee State University.

This moving production evokes the essence of war and warriors: their victories, sacrifices, loyalty and the sweet pain of coming home.

After WWII, Lt. Ponder lived with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other challenges; however, he found joy in creating a rich life for himself and his family.

In 1989, after 45 years, he finally found real relief in writing his memoir. His words of war and peace, with songs from the era and the North Carolina Mountains are a powerful stimulus that inspires combat survivors and their friends and families to open up about their own experiences.

Praised by members of the military, their families, and psychologists, Ponder Anew helps audiences understand what we ask of those in our Armed Forces - and profoundly thank those men and women for their service.

Carol and Robert have been theater and music professionals for over 40 years. Carol is an award-winning singer of Americana and, like her father, is a consummate storyteller. An accomplished actor and director, Robert specializes in creating one-person shows. Carol and Robert are delighted to be working together to perform this powerful and valuable work of art.

Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and students. The "Blue Porch at the Arts Center" will be open before the event featuring down-home Southern cooking. Ponder Anew is sponsored by attorney Richard Northcutt.

The Arts Center is located on 1424 John Bragg Highway, just west of Woodbury. Office hours are 10 a.m. To 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. For reservations or more information check the website at www.artscenterofcc.com or call 615-563-(ARTS) 2787.