FORUM
We are the Ocean: Voyaging and the Pacific
Theatre Royal, Hobart
Fri 7 February 18:30-20:30
Price: $35 / $30 concession
Suitable for ages 14+
Join historian Dame Anne Salmond, artist Michel Tuffery, and waka captain Hoturoa Barclay-Kerr in conversation with Professor Kate Fullagar as they investigate the epic stories of the original Pacific explorers and the powerful connection between people and the ocean. Featuring a performance by the Māori cultural troupe Ngā Mātai Pūrua.
THEATRE
"In the Belly of the Whale" by Mikelangelo
The Peacock Theatre, Salamanca Arts Centre
Sat 8 & Sun 9 February 18:00-19:30
Price: $40
Suitable for ages 12+
Follow Mikelangelo, the Nightingale of the Adriatic, as he sails the wild seas and the darkest depths of the ocean with his trusty guitar, his booming baritone and his sparkling accordion. He weaves songs and storytelling into a magical solo show that will captivate and delight audiences young and old, and everyone in between.
Mikelangelo is the alter-ego of songwriter and creative dynamo Michael Simic. He has packed venues and received critical accolades from the Sydney Opera House to London’s West End, and performed in the sold-out season of Songs of the Sea at AWBF 2023.
Created in collaboration with writer/director Tracy Bourne, In the Belly of the Whale has its international premiere at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival.
THEATRE
The Barbarian Ship
Ironhouse Waterside Tavern
Mon 10 February 10:30
Price: $10 + booking fee
The Barbarian Ship embarks on its maiden voyage at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, bringing to life the extraordinary true story of the 1829 mutiny aboard the brig Cyprus. Directed by Julien Poulson and The Green Mist, this immersive rock-opera recounts the daring escape of 18 Tasmanian convicts who stole a ship and sailed across the Pacific, reaching Japan. There, they encountered hostile samurai who forced their retreat under cannon fire. The notorious Captain William Swallow, a master escape artist, miraculously evaded the gallows after spinning a remarkable tale, but his fate was sealed upon his return to Van Diemen’s Land, where he died at Port Arthur.
With a full cast of musicians, dancers, roving performers, and a pirate choir, The Barbarian Ship recreates this untold chapter of Australian history with a vibrant and haunting performance. Audiences will be transported to a world of high seas adventure, rebellion, and dockside revelry, as Captain Swallow and his ragged crew sing their tale of defiance, escape, and fate. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience as part of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival!
special event
Sailing Tasmania presents "30 Years of Women on Water"
Founders Room, Salamanca Arts Centre
Fri 7 February 17:30-19:00
Price: $10 + booking fee
Join us in celebrating 30 years of women on the water as we honour their remarkable achievements and contributions. This special event features inspiring stories and valuable networking opportunities, with a captivating conversation led by Sarah Gilman, former ABC broadcaster and board member of Womensport and Recreation Tasmania. Don’t miss this chance to connect and be inspired by the incredible women shaping our maritime community.
