Jimmy Vandenberg, a decorated Vietnam war veteran, works alone in his garage, servicing the classic American cars of his youth, while struggling to forget the traumas of war. Abandoned by a nation still shamed by defeat, Trump's call to 'Make America Great Again' speaks to Jimmy's anger and resentment - and he is hooked. His new-found politics drives a wedge between him and his wife, but a chance visit by the son of a fallen comrade makes him doubt his convictions and leads to a moment of understanding and redemption.

‘Vergette builds a convincingly complex and damaged character… an ordinary soldier attempting to make sense of, not only his own actions, but those of his country… Vergette is an excellent storyteller –a master of surprise revelations…’– British Theatre Guide;★★★★★ ‘A beautifully shocking insight into the lived experiences of a war veteran… emotionally charged and utterly engaging.’ – Reviews Hub; After a stirring run at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe in 2022, Richard Vergette’s searing one-man drama has come to Park90. Featuring a gripping performance from Vergette, Leaving Vietnam is a ‘fascinating insight into the soul of a tortured man and the side of America he represents’ (★★★★ London Living Large); ★★★★★ ‘A masterpiece. Everybody should experience this brilliant play’ Fairy Powered Productions;‘… the simplest and most effective piece of political theatre I’ve seen for years.’ TheatreVibe.co.uk; ‘Vergette’s masterful performance has the audience on the edge of its seat … definitely not one to miss.’ Hackney Citizen

Born in Lincolnshire, Richard was a drama teacher in the Yorkshire and Humber region for 30 years. Writing highlights include: An Englishman’s Home (24.7 Theatre Festival Manchester 2007), As We Forgive Them (24.7 Manchester Evening News nominee for Best New Play 2009), American Justice (Arts Theatre, London’s West End 2013), Pure (Mikron Theatre tour 2015-2016), Dancing Through The Shadows (Hull Truck, 2015), Dark Winter (Hull Truck 2018), Hunt the Tiger (R&D, Cast Theatre, Doncaster, for Andy Jordan Productions 2020), Missing You (audio drama produced by Made in Manchester, featuring June Brown in her final role 2020).