5 Fishermen. £53 million of cocaine. An ongoing fight for justice

In 2011, five fishermen on the Isle of Wight (Jamie Green, Jon Beere, Daniel Payne, Scott Birtwistle & Zoran Dresic) were sentenced to a total of 104 years for conspiracy to import £53m worth of cocaine. They have always professed their innocence.

Inspired by the wildly popular Guardian Today in Focus 6-part podcast series of the same name, Liam Patrick Harrison’s stageplay launches a detailed and rich theatrical investigation into the men’s tragic downfall.

Through spectacular storytelling, verbatim accounts, inventive stagecraft, song and islanders humour, the show delves into subjects of classical & contemporary smuggling, deteriorating coastal communities, immigration and folklore interwoven through this ancient profession.

Inspired by the wildly popular Guardian Today in Focus podcast The Freshwater Five incorporates spectacular storytelling, verbatim accounts, inventive stagecraft, poetry and song. The South Coast cast and creatives delve into subjects of classical & contemporary smuggling, deteriorating coastal communities, immigration and folklore as well as examining this ancient profession’s place in our times.

House says: A captivating story told through 5 emotive performances as well as humour and music which leaves you hooked. The show will resonate with coastal communities and those with a passion for true-crime podcasts

Age guidance: 12+ (strong language & drug references)

Running time: 65 mins, no interval