World War I Nurses were Canadian Heroes Reviewed by Mary Alderson They graduated from Nursing School and headed off on an adventure, with no real understanding of what they would be facing. They learned soon enough. Nicknamed Bluebirds for their long, blue unforms, these young women showed bravery in the face of war, trying to look after badly wounded young men. We owe playwright Vern Thiessen a great deal for his portrayal of the Bluebirds. Thiessen has already built a reputation for researching and writing WWI stories with his play Vimy. Bluebirds is an excellent companion piece to be shown with Vimy, either in the same season, or as a follow up. Currently being presented in the round, in a tent on the grounds of Scugog Shores Museum, Bluebirds gives the audience a riveting story. Heading off to Europe to fight the Huns, the three young nurses grow up way too fast. Before they can get their footing at a hospital in Étaples, France, they are thrust into the horrors of artillery, guns and mustard gas. In this desperate situation, the three girls share their secrets and become fast friends, even enjoying themselves on visits to the beach. Each nurse has a well-kept secret that they eventually reveal, sharing strength in their vulnerability. As their stories unfold, there are laughs tucked in their stories, and then as the wounded arrive, the play pivots, becoming serious and heart wrenching.  When Bab brings out her grandfather’s old bellows-style camera, the audience laughs to see the three young women taking a selfie. Later the hand gestures let us know there are young soldiers dying and the play becomes very sobering. Justine Christensen is outstanding as Bab. Her sincerity is very convincing.  The audience can both laugh and cry with her.  Shannon Pitre is ...