The Kursk

The Kursk is a true story based on the ill-fated Russian submarine of the same name, written by Australian playwright, Sasha Janowicz. The Critical Stages production of The Kursk will include a season at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres from 15–19 September.

In August 2000 a nuclear submarine vanished during training in a major naval exercise coordinated by the Russian Navy. The pride of the Russian fleet, the Kursk, was discovered 80 metres deep, on the ocean floor, with 23 sailors trapped inside.

Rescue attempts were inhibited by severe weather conditions and the drama intensified when suspicion of foreign involvement surfaced. The whole world waited desperately for the survivors to be rescued.

The stage production of The Kursk follows Admiral Popov’s struggle to save the crew of the submarine and prevent a nuclear disaster. A proud and obstinate man, Admiral Popov is very untrusting of foreigners who come to assist the rescue mission.

The Kursk captures the claustrophobic world of the submarine and the terrifying ordeal the sailors endure. A young man writes love letters to his wife from the ocean floor as she prays for his return. The pressure is extreme and the stakes are high as families and loved ones wait desperately for news. The fates of their loved ones hang in the balance while rescuers fight against the impossible in the real-life thriller.

Playwright Sasha Janowicz travelled to Russia to uncover the facts surrounding the wreckage. He was also sent an anonymous package which included a submariner captain’s uniform complete with medals. The Russians donated their time, artifacts and uniforms for the project to assist in telling the true story of the Kursk.

The Kursk is directed by Brisbane-based director Michael Futcher. In 2000 he directed A Beautiful Life, which toured nationally and won four Green Room Awards and he also won a best director Matilda Award for The Kursk in 2007. Michael directs a cast of experienced actors including Edward Foy, Eugene Gilfedder, Dirk Hoult, Sasha Janowicz, Amanda Mitchell and Julienne Youngberry.

The Kursk won 3 Matilda Awards: for Best New Australian Play; Best Direction; and Best Independent Production.

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