A- 6+ Then and Now. 70 pp. In this computer generated flashback to history, we are shown how the French and English conflict began. Two young girls, one English and one French Canadian, are playing a Star Wars video game when they and their fathers are assimilated into the computer. They jump into the historic period of conflict between the French and English regarding the American and Canadian colonies. We watch as the girls and their fathers change from one character to another, often switching countries. Even though each set speaks a different language, the play is performed in English because the “Authority” has declared that each person will hear what is said in their own language. Some of the events we witness are the creation of the Hudson's Bay Company, the befriending of the Natives, and the arrival of young girls from France to marry the Coureur Du Bois. The play ends after the group realizes they must stop their hatred for each other to turn the computer off. As they exit the computer, peace is restored and respect for one another is shown. The author indicates the play was written to acquaint young people with the basics of French rights, which she has done remarkably well. This play requires two female and two males with the “Authority” being either male or female. The costume changes are minimal and quick, as are the character changes. Each actor/actress must be able to assume a variety of characters with the snap of their fingers and make it believable. The following play is found in: Chislett, Anne. Flippin' In and Then and Now, Two Theatre for Young Audience Plays. Playwrights Canada Press, 1999. ISBN 0-88754-574-2. $14.95.
