VOICES FROM THE TOMB

"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.

"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>-/====\---------

"The Catalpa"

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