Boiler Room Six: A Titanic Story
Aug 10, 12-17, 19-24 - Greenside at George Square "Boiler Room Six: A Titanic Story" plunges into the harrowing experiences of the crew members stationed deep within the Titanic, where the iceberg’s impact was first and most devastatingly felt. Central to this narrative is Frederick Barrett, a leading fireman whose bravery and quick thinking in the face of disaster proved crucial to the ship's final hours. Max Beken, at just twenty-three, delivers a remarkable performance as Barrett and other Titanic crew members in this one-man play. Despite his young age, Beken captures the weariness and resilience of a man shaped by a life of relentless physical labour and regret. His portrayal conveys the emotional and physical toll of Barrett’s experiences, marking Beken as a standout talent with a promising future. The Titanic continues to captivate audiences even after all these years, but can new stories still be told? This play offers a fresh and intimate perspective on the tragedy, providing a glimpse into the heroism and humanity of those who laboured unseen yet played a vital role in buying families precious time to escape. Through Barrett’s story, even those with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the disaster will gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made below deck, offering a new dimension to this enduring tragedy. 4/5 Lee Hutchison |