Western Carolina University will honor veterans with a live, historically accurate re-creation of the popular World War II radio show “Command Performance, USA!” at 7:30 p.m. on Veterans Day – Wednesday, Nov. 11.

For the stage presentation of “On the Home Front, Nov. ’44,” WCU’s Fine and Performing Arts Center will be transformed into one of the CBS radio studios in Hollywood where the show was recorded and broadcast 65 years ago for GIs overseas. Professional stage and screen actors, broadcast faculty members, current broadcasters, and professional voice talents will re-create the broadcast. Stars of the show also include faculty musicians performing as the 14-piece Home Front Radio Orchestra.

“During World War II, Armed Forces Radio Service programs provided a vital link to back home and were a tremendous morale booster for the GIs,” said Don Connelly, head of the communication department and producer of the show. “‘Command Performance’ was the GIs’ radio show, and they submitted requests for the music and stars they wanted to be on the show. People are going to get to see and hear all of their favorite hits come to life.

“Some of the most requested music on ‘Command Performance’ was from Spike Jones and the City Slickers, and there will be a very lively Spike Jones number.”

Tickets to attend the one-time-only live stage production are $5, with proceeds benefitting scholarship funds at WCU.

Bruce Frazier, WCU’s Belk Distinguished Professor of Commercial and Electronic Music, will direct the musicians performing as the Home Front Radio Orchestra.

“Music has always been a main part of entertaining the troops and this show is full of 1940s favorites,” said Frazier. “The music is a jolt of nostalgia with some famous dance music, swing in particular. It is great to see the spirit and enthusiasm of our music faculty as they lend their talents to the project to honor veterans.”

For ticket information, contact the Fine and Performing Arts Center box office at 828.227.2479.