I’ve never wished I had a pack of Kleenex on me more than I did Saturday night while watching the production of Modern Warrior LIVE. This deeply moving musical and storytelling performance — presented by Washington Performing Arts — was unforgettable. It powerfully brought U.S. combat veteran Jaymes Poling’s story of military service and personal transformation to life. Directed by Emmet Murphy, the Saturday evening performance at George Washington University’s Lisner Auditorium was a mission accomplished in every sense. It took the audience — which included many veterans — on an emotional journey that not only honored Military Appreciation Month but also emphasized the importance of supporting veterans and truly seeing and hearing them, especially when their own government often falls short in doing so.
Modern Warrior LIVE — created by internationally acclaimed jazz musician Dominick Farinacci — featured Poling narrating his story, starting with his enlistment in the Army at age 17, through his three deployments in Afghanistan, and finally his complicated return to civilian life. With a compelling mix of live, jazz-infused music and narrative, Poling relived his experiences for the audience, offering an honest look at the physical and emotional battles he faced both during and after his military service.
Poling’s storytelling was utterly captivating. From the moment he stepped onto a stage draped in U.S. Army fishnet, his voice conveyed a depth of emotion that gave his words profound weight. The audience could feel what he felt during each phase of his journey: the pride and anticipation of a young man shipping out, the sorrow and grief of losing his comrades in combat, and the confusion, depression, and inner torment that followed his return home. Each of his monologues was brief — often only a few sentences — yet each one was powerful enough to inspire an entire novel.
After each spoken segment, the band performed music that perfectly echoed the mood and message of Poling’s words. The band — composed of trumpeter Dominick Farinacci, pianist Jonathan Thomas, drummer Gabe Jones, bassist Aidan Taylor, and vocalists Will Blaze and Shenel Johns — brought emotional resonance to every beat and note. The setlist included a blend of original jazz compositions, military classics like “Taps” and “Blood on the Risers (Gory Gory What a Helluva Way to Die),” and creative renditions of contemporary songs like Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy” and Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
Visual storytelling also played a vital role in immersing the audience in the experience. A large screen behind the performers displayed striking images relevant to each chapter of the narrative: paratroopers mid-descent, a bullet-pierced window, and a moving slideshow of veterans, among others. Color lighting also heightened the atmosphere — blue, green, red, and gold hues washed over the stage, each representing the emotional tone of the moment. In one of the most connective parts of the evening, Poling invited the audience to sing along, making them feel like a part of his story rather than just spectators.
Several moments stood out and are sure to linger with anyone lucky enough to have been in the audience. Farinacci’s trumpet playing, for instance, had a haunting beauty that stayed with you long after the notes faded. During the post-show Q&A session, one audience member described the trumpet as Poling’s heart and the drums as his thoughts. Building on that sentiment, I would add that the piano represented his actions, while the bass grounded him — the steady presence that keeps him moving forward.
Another unforgettable moment was Will Blaze’s rendition of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” His voice carried such emotional weight that I couldn’t hold back tears. It was a deeply spiritual performance that transcended the room. Similarly, Shenel Johns’ performance of “Hallelujah” felt transcendent. With a starry backdrop and a voice that seemed to come from beyond, she embodied a celestial presence — perhaps an angel or some other spiritual entity — elevating the emotional gravity of the piece.
Modern Warrior LIVE concluded with a well-deserved standing ovation. The audience’s gratitude was palpable. More than just a musical or theatrical production, this was an experience of collective empathy and reflection. It created a powerful connection between the storyteller and the audience, among the audience members themselves, and with the broader human experience of conflict, survival, and healing. It left a lasting impact, evoking complex emotions about war, government, and our shared humanity.
Running Time: Approximately one hour, plus an hour for Q&A
Modern Warrior LIVE played May 10, 2025, presented by Washington Performing Arts in the Lisner Auditorium at the George Washington University, 730 21st St NW, Washington, DC.
PRODUCTION/CAST
Director: Emmet Murphy
Creator and Trumpeter: Dominick Farinacci
Narrator: Jaymes Poling
Pianist: Jonathan Thomas
Drummer: Gabe Jones
Bassist: Aidan Taylor
Vocalist: Will Blaze
Vocalist: Shenel Johns