^{On the 20th of January 1788, the first fleet of British prison ships, under the command of Arthur Phillip, arrive at Botany Bay in New South Wales. The following year, with the future of the colony in question, 2nd Lieutenant Ralph Clark is asked by Phillip to stage a production of George Farquhar’s comedy The Recruiting Officer using convicts, many of them illiterate, as his cast. The severe adversity which Ralph and his players overcame to realize the first Australian production of a play is a fascinating chapter in the history of this dawning nation. This is a play which challenges both actors and audience. It is a true dramatic experience full of tragedy, humour and romance – all human emotions are shown.}