This Machine Kills Fascists 
Star Theatres
Fri 6 Mar, 2026

This musical theatre is a hard hitting, energetic look at one of America's icons. It mixes original songs with traditional tunes and those penned by Woody Guthrie. While it highlights the fame he richly deserved, it gives a totally balanced view of his life by documenting his faults and foibles as well.

The detailed story-telling is shared by the large cast, a strong ensemble all with fine singing voices. The dancing is varied, vigorous and joyful, returning often to the chanting rhythm of the freight train which is his main metaphor. Like the train, Guthrie was a powerful force, on a single-minded mission of truth telling.

They neatly show how his early upbringing shaped his future. His journeys around the many states of America, and into the nascent folk scene in New York is recounted in Brechtian style, direct to the audience. His intense focus led to difficulty in making lasting friendships, although he developed relationships with many well-know musicians. The 'name-dropping' song is particularly jaw-dropping, a who's who of the famous we all know, who all gained inspiration from him.

Pete Seeger did become a close friend, although it was unclear to me who he was for some time. Woody Guthrie engaged with many causes, supporting his colored comrades before the Civil Rights movement was such a thing. While initially anti-war, he did not shy away from joining the war effort - hence the title of the show. His main target was those who abused their positions of wealth and politics. Of course now these two are inseparable in America.

Current references are gradually introduced to indicate how these issues need constant attention. Donald Trump's father gets a special mention, building his empire with a ruthlessness that caught Guthrie's eye. His dedication as a champion of the working people is wonderfully celebrated in this work. It is well worth enjoying this tribute to a figure who, now 'bound for glory', reminds us that we have a duty, since 'this land is your land.'