It was an event that changed the world forever, and more than 100 years later, Surrey Little Theatre is bringing the dramatic tale of the sinking of the Titanic to the stage.
The Last Lifeboat, written by Luke Yankee and directed by Dale Kelly, tells the historically untold, true story of the Titanic and the builder J. Bruce Ismay, of the White Star Line. The play deals not only with the disaster itself, but the sensationalized trials and the aftermath of the night that the huge, thought-to-be unsinkable passenger liner collided with an iceberg during her maiden voyage in April, 1912.
Ismay’s decision to save himself rather than go down with the ship made him the scapegoat for one of the greatest disasters of all time. This play addresses the issues of corporate greed, commercial success versus human safety, survivor’s guilt and how making the choice not to follow one’s heart can destroy a life, even if it is saved.
Starring 15 cast members, including Langley actors Mike Busswood, Jay Martens and Owen Carlson, The Last Lifeboat opens for its Canadian premiere on April 14, exactly 104 years to the day after the sinking of the Titanic.
The last performance is May 14.
“The Last Lifeboat is a parable for our times,” said director Dale Kelly.
“It is a tale of one man’s destiny, shaped by good, if misguided decisions. The play shows how we are judged by our actions, not our intentions.”
The Last Lifeboat will also be Surrey Little Theatre’s entry into the Fraser Valley Zone Festival in May. The play that wins the Zone will go on to compete at the provincial level at Theatre BC’s Mainstage in July.
Performances are Thursdays to Saturdays at 8 p.m. with three Sunday matinees on April 24, May 1 and May 8 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $15 and half-price on April 14.
For reservations call 604-576-8451, email reservations@surreylittletheatre.com or go to www.brownpapertickets.com. Visit www.surreylittletheatre.com for more information.
Surrey Little Theatre is located at 7027 184 St.
