Passengers by Fiona Farrell

From Christchurch, New Zealand, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School presents Passengers by multi award-winning New Zealand author, Fiona Farrell. In the 1860’s, a dozen working class women aged between twelve and twenty-one, board an immigrant ship in England, bound for New Zealand. Most of them are leaving domestic service in the hope of a new life. Some are running away, others believe they have a calling. Passengers is the story of their journey.

During the 130 days on the ship we get to know these young women, learn about their pasts and their dreams for the future. Created from actual records of the time, the play gives an insight into the extreme conditions on board the ship and the relationships formed as these assisted immigrants head for a brighter future.