Renowned writer, historian and performer Michael Veitch will tour his one-man show Hell Ship this February and March, telling the true story of one of the most dramatic, yet now forgotten chapters of Australia’s early maritime history.
Hell Ship is the tale of hardship and heroism, survival and love following the three-month voyage of the emigrant clipper Ticonderoga from Liverpool to Port Phillip Bay in 1852.
Forbidden to enter Melbourne, the Ticonderoga was made to offload her desperate human cargo onto a small beach inside the heads at Port Phillip Bay, where for six weeks a makeshift quarantine hospital was established, when then endured for more than a century.
Thoroughly researched by Michael Veitch, this is mainly the story of two people: Annie Morrison, a young Scots nurse and Ticonderoga’s official surgeon, James William Henry Veitch, and their tireless efforts in saving lives. These two historical figures went on to marry, becoming Michael Veitch’s great-great grandparents.
Having premiered right where the story took place at the Point Nepean Quarantine Station to great acclaim, Ticonderoga and its associated book, both written by Michael Veitch, have tapped into many Australian families’ enduring fascination with their own heritage, hidden family stories and maritime history.
With a stunning soundtrack arranged and performed live by Michael’s son, Thomas Veitch, the show’s emotions and history run deep with a moving and profound story that will touch audiences everywhere.
Hell Ship will tour to Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Fairy Folk Festival, central Victoria and northern NSW in 2020.
“It’s a poignant tale with a vividly regenerated cast of characters. Michael Veitch does it all, brilliantly and single-handedly.” - Max Gillies AM
Tickets to Hell Ship and further information can be found at at hellshipticonderoga.com
Aussie Theatre has 2 x double pass to giveaway to THE ODD COUPLE in Melbourne…
Prepare to be enthralled by the lavish new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning…
Aussie Theatre has 1 x family pass (4 tickets) to giveaway to Possum Magic– Sydney…
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE An Adaptation in Words and Music is a new theatrical adaptation of…
The much-anticipated lavish new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award winning musical masterpiece, SUNSET…
After a competitive global recruitment process, the Sydney Opera House has appointed Brenna Hobson as…