Salute : Ongoing development of a spectacular Tall Ship Show

‘Salute’ is a romantic love story between a crew of ‘High Canvas’sailors and an extravagant troupe of showgirls played out on the deck and in the rigging of a beautiful square sailed Tall Ship.

Inspired by Britiain’s rich maritime heritage, this exciting new show celebrates some fascinating social, seafaring and trading history as a dramatic aerial spectacle.

Traditional maritime peace gestures such as ‘Manning the Yards’ will be transformed into a romantic story of flirtation, courtship, love and loss told through a dazzling array of aerial, dance and physical theatre skills.

Rituals of saluting have evolved for centuries – in both social and military contexts. Their strong visual codes have been re-appropriated in everyday language and gestures – often with the traditional irreverence that characterises British humour.

‘Saluting was an admitted weakness of the English, ‘who are the vainest of all nations, even more than the Dutch, who use it only when they are drunk’ [2]

Contrasting the stiffness of formal military drills with louch flamboyant gestures of chorus lines, circus and the slapstick humour of silent film, this unique Tall Ship Show will offer an irreverant new reading of the traditions and stories behind public display.

Developed in collaboration with a talented team of aerialists and specialist riggers, ‘Salute’ may be adapted to respond to a variety of context and locations for presentation across the UK and internationally.

To view footage of R&D material please see video : http://www.vimeo.com/6995379

© Charlie Murphy 2004

Footnote

‘Safeguard of the Sea’, pg407, Social History 1603-1639, The British Library

This project is generously supported by an artsadmin mid career bursary, ArtSway, numerous individuals in the maritime community. It has recently been awarded a Research and Development grant by the ACE London Office.

Further information Contact Charlie Murphy on 07855328565 or email charliemurphy99@hotmail.com