The Voyage of the Orphans
by Fiona Quinn, devised with Co. Limerick Youth Theatre
Age range
13 – 15, 16 +
Cast size
10 – 15, 15 +
Approx. running time
60 – 90 mins
Gender breakdown
Male: 2-12
Female: 10-23
Also: Most of the characters can be doubled up.
Female: 10-23
Also: Most of the characters can be doubled up.
Setting
Ireland and Australia circa 1849. Multiple locations. Rural characters - from Limerick area but can be transferred to any rural background.
Note
An epic historical play for a large cast.
First performance
The County Limerick Youth Theatre at the HoneyFitz Theatre, Lough Gur, Co. Limerick in December 2009. A New Stage Play for 2011.
Synopsis
The Voyage of the Orphans is a historical drama exploring the unchanging themes of migration - poverty, famine and racism through a three-act play depicting the historical story of the 4,000 Irish famine orphans transported to Australia from 1848-1850. The play follows the story of three sisters, Maggie, Kathleen and Bridget through their life in the workhouse in Ireland, on-board a transport ship and on arrival in Australia. Through the highs and lows of the girls’ lives, the friendships they make, their laughter and fears, the audience are challenged to remember that this is not a story of the past; it is the on-going story of the world.