A triumphant return for the good Ship Songs!

Media Release – February 10th 2011
- For Immediate Release

A TRIUMPHANT RETURN FOR THE GOOD SHIP SONGS!

SHIP SONGS
Written and performed by Ian Hughes
Directed by Anna Marbrook. Music by Don McGlashan

An overnight sensation when it toured the country in 2008, Ship Songs’ romantic, epic tales and roguish folklore inspired by the true story of how Hughes parents met captured the hearts of audiences throughout New Zealand.

This captivating tale of love and adventure has had its decks completely swabbed and its newly refurbished sail hoisted for its return voyage to Auckland as Ian Hughes (Bare, Shortland Street) and Ship Songs docks at Q Theatre from the 21st of March.

When Ian’s mum met Ian’s dad sparks flew. The reason? Ian’s mum had the most amazing story to tell of her adventures on the high seas. If you’re lost, throw yourself at the mercy of the sea – it may just bring you home.

Weaving together three stories spanning  five and four continents and incredibly playing all fourteen characters , Hughes’ inspiring story-telling drew audiences in upon his first adventure – however the playwright and actor wasn’t merely content with what he had.

Instead, Hughes and his crew took their bounty and complete revamped Ship Songs , performing it  at the 2010 NZ International Arts Festival to rapturous ovations; They made it bigger, better and even more inspiring before hosting anchor and finally returning to Auckland. Its cutting edge animation has been upgraded, the songs have become more epic and the action more exciting.

Its luscious soundtrack of rousing sea shanties and soulful ballads is provided by iconic New Zealand musician Don McGlashan, who marks his first theatrical appearance in the show in twenty years – not merely as a live musician but as a member of the cast. He’s joined once more by long time Seven Sisters collaborator Chris O’Connor and The Broadsides/former Charlie ASH member Dave Khan, together they have become Don McGlashan and the Journeymen  and they  perform on stage right in the middle of the action creating the impassioned songs, music and sound effects to Ian’s incredible stories.

“A hugely entertaining performance and production.”

-          Laurie Atkinson, The Dominion Post, 2010

“A really lovely piece of theatre and music. Go and see it if you can”

-          Hannah Smith, Theatreview , 2010

SHIP SONGS plays
21st March – 7th April, 21 March - 24 (8pm)    28 March - 31 (8pm), 1 April (5pm) 3-7 (8pm)
Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland CBD
Tickets First week all tickets $35, A reserve $42, B reserve $35 C reserve $30 
Bookings: Q Theatre – www.qtheatre.co.nz or 09 309 9771
Duration: 80 mins - Contains some strong language

For more information contact:
Michelle Lafferty at Elephant Publicity -
 +64 9 368 4180 or elephantpublicity@paradise.net.nz

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7oXw26MQ7-g