White Rose

Written as a mini-musical for the 70th Anniversary Celebrations of the Home League (The Salvation Army's women's organisation) at the Royal Albert Hall on 27 June 1977. The musical is set in Paris and was first produced by a team from Manchester, where John Gowans served as a divisional leader at the time. The event was presided over by the Queen Mother.

The musical unfolds in Paris, introducing a bustling boulevard café where a Salvation Army girl encounters Clare, a dishevelled young woman feeling miserable despite the cheerful surroundings. The story moves to a Home League meeting, showcasing the fellowship and activities (knitting, toffee making, coffee) where Clare is welcomed and receives a white rose, the League's emblem. Later, Clare is shown in her chaotic home; inspired by the beauty of the rose, she cleans her home and herself, surprising her returning children and husband, Jacques. Finally, during an Army Hall meeting, moved by the testimonies and message, Clare, followed by her children and Jacques, finds faith at the Mercy Seat, culminating in a joyous celebration.