Nelson is inspiration for The Sailors’ Story

The show had its World Premiere at the GMT International Theatre Festival in Adelaide, South Australia in October 2013. After its performance at The Spring it goes on tour, playing various dates around the UK, before jetting off to Kansas Fringe in July and then back to play the Edinburgh Fringe at the new Zoo Venue, The Sanctuary. In October and November it will continue to tour and will also play one night in the new theatre space in the hold of the Cutty Sark.

So what’s the show about? “It’s not just about Nelson - though he’s the focus - he’s an amazing man, a real character. He’s an inspirational leader, but flawed too, especially in his personal life, which makes it really interesting for people who might not know much about him. I read a lot, talked to a few people I know who are Nelson enthusiasts and then dug a bit deeper. I liked the idea of showing naval life from the viewpoint of the men - who were recording their thoughts - probably the first time we have those opinions expressed from below deck. Then I’ve intermingled a bit about service life now, to draw the threads together.

It’s the follow up to my first one-man show “Spitfire Solo”, about a retired ex-Battle of Britain pilot. That’s toured pretty much everywhere - all over the UK, Australia - twice - and the USA. I really enjoyed making the show with Gavin (Robertson - director of both shows) and so I decided I’d do another. It took a slightly different direction to the one I’d originally envisaged - it has more of a direct connection with service people now.”

Written and performed by Nicholas Collett Directed by Gavin Robertson Original soundtrack by Danny Bright

Inspirational hero - flawed maverick. Tactical genius. Rebel. Amidst the shot, smoke and din of battle, a surgeon, a midshipman, a gunner and a powder monkey aboard HMS Victory strive to destroy the Combined Fleet of France and Spain. Their fate – and that of their country - lies in the hands of one man – Horatio Nelson.

For two hundred years, Vice Admiral, the Right Honourable, the Viscount Nelson KB has stood patiently on his column in Trafalgar Square, watching the world and its many changes, good – and bad. But what happened to the “tars” who served with him? Through their eyes we find out what it was really like at Trafalgar; and in Nelson’s own words, the hero – and the rebel, then – and now. Below the column in Trafalgar Square, a homeless Falklands veteran shivers in the cold...

Adults £12.50 Members, under-18s and groups £7.50 Box office: 01424 423221 www.stablestheatre.co.uk