A story ‘needed to be told’ enters its final week.

By the end of November, Arandora Star will have performed to over 5,000 people. 

Being a story that is close to so many hearts, we knew from the outset that the retelling of the tragedy would have to be approached with sensitivity and empathy.

Despite the mass of paperwork, newspaper articles and video footage we made our way through, nothing compared to the wonderful first hand guidance we received from Paulette Pelosi, whose Grandfather was one of the few survivors from the ill fated ship. It was Paulette who led us through the emotional as well as the practical consequences of Churchill’s decision to ‘collar the lot’.    

One survivors desperately tragic account describes men floating in the freezing cold water, the ship disappearing beneath the dark waters and hope fast disappearing with it…with only one word being called out…’Mama.’

For us, we can only express our sincere gratitude at the support and warmth we have received throughout this project, in the hope that Theatr na n’Óg have contributed in some way to keeping the story and the memory of those lost, alive.  

Below is some of the wonderful feedback we have received, most of which believe like us, that the tragedy of the Arandora Star cannot be forgotten. 

‘It was especially poignant to us, my husband’s grandfather was lost on the Arandora Star along with his uncle: Francesco Dambrosio and Sylvestra Dambrosio. A fantastic insight into this story for the children of Wales. It should never be forgotten.’ Sheridan Mills, Swansea. 

‘A remarkable and truly moving performance of a truth needed to be told. Beautifully done and credit to everyone who made it possible.’ Robert Rhodes. 

‘An amazing depiction of the history of the times that surrounded the tragedy. Even though Italian – Welsh myself, I had no relatives on the ship but was moved to tears more than a few times during this very authentic performance. The sinking scene itself was literally ‘chilling’ – allowed me to sample a fraction of the fear that must have ensued.’ Nesta Casetta-Wyer. 

‘Brilliant production, gave me an insight to my past that I didn’t realise had happened, and I was humbled. Thank you. We must never forget.’ Leila Jones.