VOICES FROM THE TOMB

stinger | 07/11/2008 - 12:27

Billboard Bulletins | Drama | Fremantle | Producer

"Voices From The Tomb" is a radio drama written by WA historian George Russo. It tells the story of the escape of 6 Irish political prisoners from Fremantle Gaol in 1876 and their rescue from certain death off Rockingham beach by a rowboat from the American whaler 'Catalpa' anchored off Garden Island. The narrative graphically illustrates the high degree of planning, intrigue and tension involved in the escapade.

The play will be performed and recorded before a live audience at Princess May Theatre, Fremantle on Wednesday night 12 November 2008 as part of the Fremantle Fringe Festival. Featuring actors from Harbour Theatre, music by members of bush band 'Loaded Dog' and technicians from Fremantle Community Radio, this is a chance to be a part of local history. Admission is free!

Any enquiries can be directed to Peter Nettleton on 0414443864.

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Sounds great

Author: jmuzz
Date: 07/11/2008 - 14:27

I remember hearing about this story from Perth's past a couple of years ago. From memory, the prisoners were all fenians which is how they came to have been imprisoned in the first place.
The amazing thing is not only did they escape to the Catalpa - I believe they actually chartered the boat in the first place - all arranged from Fremantle prison. Smart people those irish.

"The Catalpa"

Author: crgwllms
Date: 07/11/2008 - 21:15

"Come all you screw warders and gaolers,
Remember Perth Regatta Day,
Take care of the rest of your Fenians
Or the Yankees will steal them away"

I don't know why this was stored in my head. I must've been 6 or 7 when I learnt 'The Catalpa" at school (there were verses, I only remember this chorus intact) from the 'Let's Join In' books that we used to sing along to ABC radio with.

And apart from a VERY rudimentary notion of what it's about, I can't really say I ever understood what I was singing (what are Fenians?), although I was aware of it being real history about Irish prisoners escaping from the Roundhouse onto a passing American ship...The Catalpa.

I'd be interested in finding out what the actual history is.

Cheers,
Craig

~<8>-/====\---------

VOICES FROM THE TOMB

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