Lifeboat

Based on the inspiring true story of Bess Walder and Beth Cummings, Lifeboat is a “powerful emotional journey” (The Herald) by author Nicola McCartney and performed by Scotland’s award-winning Catherine Wheels Theatre Company. As Germany increased its attacks on Britain during World War II, a controversial program was enacted to tranport British children to safer shores. Beth, Bess and 90 other children boarded the S.S. City of Benares in the spring of 1940 and embarked on a trip that changed their lives forever. Two actresses portray the girls, their families and friends on a simple set that strikingly frames each event: from quiet kitchen conversations to playful sibling squabbles to a horrifying torpedo attack amidst the dark, unnerving silence of the icy Atlantic. A touching tale of friendship, hope and courage, Lifeboat celebrates a life-long bond that has lasted over 60 years.