On Convoy

Synopsis

The year is 1942, perhaps the most dangerous year for convoy ships crossing the North Atlantic to supply the Allied War effort. A young man from rural Ontario joins the crew of the FISHPOOL, a merchant convoy ship departing form Halifax for Liverpool during WWII. Nathan is introduced to his first convoy duty by two of the ship’s older crew.

Tense and absorbing, the story revolves around the veteran mariner, the young recruit and the salty ships carpenter. The lives of these men, their hopes and fears, unfold as the ship and its crew are attacked by German submarines.

“On Convoy” the stage play was produced in 1999 and subsequently adapted for radio. The full-length radio drama was broadcast nationally and internationally by CBC Radio in 2002.

The Inspiration – John Webster

John Webster was born in 1918 in Clingford, England. At the age of 14, he went to sea aboard a Danish merchant vessel. He served in the Army and the Merchant Navy during WWII and received five medals.

After the war, John emigrated to Canada with his wife and settled in Exeter, Ontario. He was an active and dedicated member of the Exeter and Hensall Legions. John Webster passed away in 1998.

Premier Performance Details

On Convoy premiered at The Livery in Goderich, Ontario on March 19, 1999, with the following cast:

• John…… John Knapp
• Nathan… Ryan Whalen
• Chippie… David Armour

Directed by: Marie Duncan McGregor

Set design: Sherri Milburn and Ross Barnett

Sound design: Arlene Darnborough

Lighting design: Sherri Milburn and Ross Barnett