A poignant story of love and bravery.   Of women capable of far more than they were ever credited.   Raw and courageous.  Sister Anzac is an emotionally satisfying tale of epic simplicity.

1915 – the first nurses went to Gallipoli on the hospital ship the Maheno.  Like the men they boldly put their hands up.  13 were accepted for this first trip.  Travelling as if they were heading for a big adventure the horror they met is history.

Sister Anzac premiered in 2014 to an enraptured audience and critical acclaim at the Devonport Navy Museum.   Selling out for three seasons it achingly depicts the role women played during WWI.

With grit, humour, and compassion the women dealt with inexplicable military decisions, woefully inadequate conditions and the heart breaking reality of war.  Sister Anzac is a poignant and personal story traversing love and the human spirit.

Seen by the soldiers as Angels of Mercy, women previously perceived as fragile beings were recognised as both tender in their ministrations and tough to the core.  Courageous and with indomintable strength.

Starring:  Alex Ellis, Anthea Hill, Donogh Rees, Nicola Kawana, David Capstick, Jordan Blaikie

“Rees (Donogh) has the audience eating out of the palm of her hand as soon as she utters her first lines on stage. She is mesmerising”.  Sharu Delilkan  - Theatrescenes

“She brings truth and honesty to moments of striking beauty in the horror of the war and its results”. Johnny Givins – Theatreview

Directed by Amanda Rees

Designed by John Parker and Jo Kilgour

“Amanda Rees’ resolute direction produces a visceral punch – Theatreview

There is a drive that is linked to this show to collect radio stories – oral history - as Sister Anzac travels the country.  If you would like to share your family WWI history please go to www.starktheatre.nz for more details and to contact the producer.