A DANCE TO THE MUSIC OF TIME Third Movement

WWII changes the face of England, leaving an indelible mark on civilians and servicemen alike. Nick Jenkins and his friends and family hadn't escaped the evacuations, death, and psychological trauma of the war. Nick's bewilderment, frustrations, and brief moments of joy as he negotiates life in the service are expertly conveyed by narrator Simon Vance. From the pomposity of the newly promoted to the silent acceptance of those assigned to menial labor, Vance captures the surreal world of the noncombatant soldier. Powell's descriptions of war-torn England highlight the randomness of destruction as well as the widespread food and fuel shortages. Through Nick's position as a member of the Allied Liaison, listeners also hear about the effects of destroyed governments on refugee dignitaries and displaced royalty. C.B.L. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2011]