Blue Water Empire, a three-part dramatised documentary series for the ABC, has commenced filming. The show, which provides a unique insight into the history and culture of the Torres Strait Islands, will show pre-colonisation life through the pervasive impact of European arrival.
The cast list includes many local favourites, such as Jack Thompson, Ryan Corr, Damian Walshe-Howling, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Jimi Bani, Roy Billing, Geoff Morrell, Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, Peter Phelps, Merwez Whaleboat, Robert Mammone and Damian de Montemas.
Sally Riley, ABC’s Head of Scripted Content, stated that “Blue Water Empire is a strikingly original and distinctive dramatised documentary series and we are delighted that so many of Australia’s finest actors are helping bring to life the fascinating history of the Torres Strait Islands.”
With the recent discourse surrounding mass migration of vulnerable people, Blue Water Empire hopes to show the perspective of those who are forced to migrate. “It’s an honour to be telling the stories of our amazing people and their contribution, over the last two centuries, to the history of Torres Strait Islanders and wider Australia”, says Fa’Aoso.
Blue Water Empire is being produced for the ABC with assistance from Screen Australia and Screen Queensland, and will air sometime next year.
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