Inspired by a photograph and an article on women of the waterways in the Second World War, Busy Lizzies Theatre Company and Long Way Home Productions collaborated in creating this new musical about four women from very different backgrounds on a canal boat in 1942. There is much already known about those who continued in various ways on the Home Front, including various incarnations of land girls, but very little in the public consciousness about these women who had to be incredibly tough both physically and mentally, living on a boat which passers-by could easily mistake for a jolly jaunt or lazy work. Hauling coal, physically turning the boats with poles, and dealing with over one hundred lock gates between London and Birmingham were all tasks for women who had been used to running a home and family and knew nothing of manual labour.
The actors and the musicians fill the story with heart, warmth and longing
This is a well researched piece which acts as the crucible for the snapshot of these four women’s lives, and a fascinating watch. The style of telling: grounded and down to earth with almost a folksy charm, suits the piece perfectly. Live accomplished musicians accompany through all the songs and also add live soundscaping which is a nice touch. The atmosphere they create between them: the actors and the musicians, fill the story with heart, warmth and longing. It’s cosy, earnest and very sweet, almost too much so, and will melt those that come to watch who are seeking nostalgia.
Edna, played with fierceness and a no-nonsense attitude by Emma Baars, is the Captain of the boat, with Ginny played by Elizabeth Kroon with sincerity, sensibility and sensitivity as her experienced second. Two new recruits arrive: Meg, played by Maple Preston-Ellis trying to hold on to her decorum and looking like she sleeps with Good Housekeeping underneath her pillow. Her wide eyed innocence and questions about how on earth they go to the toilet on the boat and the resulting song about exactly how to use a bucket, is hilarious. The other is Ruth played by Catriona Judt who has a completely different background to the others, more used to certain areas of London and the shadows, and she and Meg bring their secret love on board which causes some interesting sparkles for them all to address. Aaron Coomer has such a gentle presence in his brief moments as Alfred, with a perfect German accent, and glorious singing voice. There are frequent songs and all the voices are pitch perfect and strong, blending silkily together in two, three and four part harmonies.
There is so much to love about this show, and while the characters do tip into stereotype at times, their stories are beautifully told. The points these characters make about gender roles are very relevant, for both then and now. “Doors have been left open for women” says Ginny, and the sharply astute Meg returns with “doors have been absentmindedly left ajar”. The lyrics in the songs are so well crafted, such as “paper love” in the letters they receive, connecting them to their loved ones and the wider world. It’s a show to leave you smiling and thinking, with some of the songs in your head for a goodly while to come.
