David zum Brunnen and Serena Ebhardt will act out “War Bonds: The Songs and Letters of World War II” on Saturday at the Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls.

CRYSTAL FALLS — Crystal Theatre will honor those who have served in the military with a historical tribute at 7 p.m. Saturday.

“War Bonds: The Songs and Letters of World War II” is a musical journey through a war that redefined the world. This multimedia living history cabaret is interspersed with personal letters from the war front and headline news of the period.

The cabaret is created and performed by Serena Ebhardt and David zum Brunnen of EbzB Productions. Actual veterans’ stories take the audience back to the days when blackouts and rationing were a small sacrifice in order to obtain freedom.

It was a time when Rosie the riveter discovered she could take care of herself, a time when African-Americans, held down at home by Jim Crow, became war heroes overseas, and when a man’s only wish was to be home for Christmas.

“War Bonds: The Songs and Letters of World War II” showcases the power of music and the written word in connecting people during dark times of war. Light-hearted tunes like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree” inspired, entertained, and linked soldiers with loved ones far away. Today, the letters provide a glimpse into the personal lives of soldiers and their families, revealing the struggles they endured and sacrifices they made during the war.

Said Jane Lonon of the Ashe County Arts Council in North Carolina, “‘War Bonds’ is a well-crafted work by two of the best in the business. It leaves audiences with smiles and tears.” It is described as “a warm reminiscence and a harrowing reminder of a time that is not unlike the present.”

Advanced tickets for the event may be purchased online at thecrystaltheatre.org, by phone at 906-875-3208 or in person 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday at Stage Left next to the theatre.