Unconditional Surrender:
A Visit with Ulysses S. Grant​
A one-man show written and performed by Peter J. Grady
Originally produced by the Marshalltown Iowa Community Theatre
Ulysses S. Grant comes to life in this
informative, humorous, and touching
portrayal. Meet the victorious General
whose strategy and tenacity won the
Civil War, the President who struggled
to rebuild his country after the war, and
the husband and father whose final efforts
were devoted to the financial support of his
wife and family.
"A riveting performance that captures the essence of Ulysses S. Grant. Well scripted and perfectly delivered."
Greg Wolk, Missouri's Civil War Heritage Foundation, St. Louis, Missouri
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". . .(I)t was the most engaging program we have ever hosted at the Kirkendall Public Library. It was beyond a performance, as Peter Grady became Grant and shared history and personal stories with a range of emotions reflective of the stories he told. The research was evident, replete with a passion for the subject. The lessons learned from this period of American history are timeless and Grady's selection of incidents from Grant's life were spot-on, giving the back story for current events. I highly recommend this program." Joy King, Kirkendall Public Library, Ankeny, Iowa
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Photo: Jay Grammond
What people are saying about "Unconditional Surrender:"
Grady's presentation ". . .was detailed, informative and entertaining— all done in
a one hour show. Grady not only starred, he wrote, directed and produced it.
'Memoirs and Selected Letters,' Grant's book — which was completed shortly
before he died — was effectively used as were other historical references."
-Mike Donahey,"The Devil's Advocate" blog for the Marshalltown Times-Republican.
"Pete Grady’s portrayal of General Ulysses S. Grant, for the Minnesota History
Center’s Civil War Family Day on July 4th, 2013 was a complete success! It was
like having the real General in our presence! He gave a remarkable performance
for museum visitors of all ages; strolling the building and outdoor grounds,
conversing comfortably with people throughout the day, as well as giving formal
staged presentations. I especially appreciated Pete’s flexibility in adapting his Dylan Kurt, Cascade Pioneer
formal program into 30- minute segments so visitors had multiple opportunities to see his presentations. His ability to stay in character and respond to the challenging Q&A from audience members was thrilling. It was delightful working with this fine gentleman and I look forward to the next opportunity!"
-Wendy Freshman, Public Programs Specialist, Minnesota Historical Society
"Pete Grady is the most professional, accurate, courteous and best impressionist/ performer I have had the pleasure to work with."
-Laura Olson, Allamakee County Economic Development and Tourism
"I've been Program Chair of the Des Moines Civil War Roundtable for over 15 years - after Peter Grady's performance. . . members who have belonged to the Roundtable for over 30 years came up to me and said it was the best program we've ever had. Peter is not just a re-enacter; he throws 'body and soul' into being U.S. Grant. You couldn't ask for a better program."
-John Liepa, Des Moines Civil War Roundtable Chair
“Delightfully entertaining! Mr. Grady was astonishing in bringing Ulysses S. Grant back to life on the stage.”
-Kristina Raisch, Hampton, Iowa Historic Preservation Commission
"Pete Grady not only looks like General Grant, he is General Grant . . . I completely enjoyed being transported back in history by General Grant to his place and time . . . "
-Jon Martin, President, Lake Park Players
"Grant enthusiasts in our audience proclaimed that Pete Grady 'nailed it!' . . .Highly recommended."
-Susan Macken, Oelwein Municipal Library
"Pete Grady's portrayal of Ulysses S. Grant puts the flesh on the bare bones of the man you learned about in history class. I found myself retelling the little known information to anyone who would listen."
-Denise Fletcher, Wieting Theatre & Opera House, Toledo
"Talent---yes! Good writing --yes! Good direction and production--yes! Absolutely cream on the top for entertainment and historical value."
-Elaine Govern, Riceville, Iowa
"At our Boy Scout Camporee we spent the day learning about the Civil War and it was topped off by your excellent portrayal of U.S. Grant. The campfire added to the authenticity of the experience. Scouts and leaders alike were taken back in time as U.S. Grant was right before us, telling us his story in first-person. Wonderful! It was a perfect way to close our camporee."
-Paul Podhajsky, Tamaha District Boy Scout Activities Chair
"Pete's performance at St. Ambrose was remarkable. He was Grant. His choices of what to include in the program were informative and provocative. Great stuff on The Union. With all the loose and careless talk among some irresponsible political hacks about secession from the United States, Grant's comments on the horrendous costs of that in his time reveal the utter stupidity of some of our contemporaries. Not to be missed--See this show!"
-Randy Richards, St. Ambrose University
"Our West Point alumni group was informed that the evening speaker would be a "distinguished old grad". When General Grant was introduced they were surprised, to say the least, and as the General told his story the gathering was completely enthralled. At the conclusion of the performance the veterans felt more deeply connected to their history and experience than ever before. Mr. Grady's presentation leaves an individual wanting to learn more about the history and the man."
-John E. Billingsley United States Military Academy '77
"What a privilege to work with Pete! The audience enjoyed "learning" and hearing Grant's life come alive. The pictures helped the audience keep focus, and Pete's storytelling was engaging! He has a gift, and we appreciate his sharing that gift."
-De Heaton, Corning Opera House Cultural Center.
