John Schumann

Behind the Lines Australia at War - in Words and Music Special Guest Graham Cornes (ex 7RAR) – “Reminiscences and Reflections” Commemorating the veterans of the West Coast “Schumann’s voice carries the wind in from the outback. It has grains of red dust and yellow earth, it’s flecked with toil, hardship, humanity and love. It’s as old as the land, with a gnarled weariness like the weathered bark of a gum, tinged with the light of hope. He sings of Australia, of its past and present, its people.” Poet and journalist Warwick McFadyen John Schumann is best known for his leadership of the legendary folk-rock band, Redgum and his timeless anthem for all veterans, “I Was Only 19”. On the eve of Vietnam Veterans Day, John Schumann and his band, The Vagabond Crew, present “Behind the Lines - Australia at War in words and music” at the Nautilus Arts Centre. Beautifully played by The Vagabond Crew, an international class band comprising international class players, songs are linked by a moving narrative delivered by acclaimed actor, Celine O’Leary. The narrative consists of newspaper reports of the day, poems, letters from the front and gentle reflections illustrated by rare, evocative images. Behind the Lines” is a heartfelt commemoration bringing into focus the very best of Australian songwriting. Along with beautiful rearrangements of much-loved Australian classics, John and the band will perform his own songs including “I was only 19”, “Safe behind the Wire”, “On Every Anzac Day” and “Anzac Biscuits” (from his bestselling album “Behind the Lines” ABC Music/Universal). The first 100 tickets sold include an invitation to breakfast at the RSL on Vietnam Veterans Day to hear John Schumann tell the true story behind “I was only 19”. Invitees will notified by email.