Shantyman – the life and times of John Short of Watchet

A new musical show written by Stony resident Phil Underwood (Canals of Old England, Boat Horse).

Powerfully performed, the show tells the story of the life and times of John Short, aka Yankee Jack, in narrative, dialogue and song. John was a celebrated shanty singer from Watchet in Somerset. He was born in 1839 and sailed during the great days of the sailing ships. When he married his beloved Annie, he left the deep sea and became a hobbler, fireman and town crier. It was said that he could be heard over two miles away!
He died in 1933, just shy of 94, a remarkable age for a sailor.

The show is around an hour and a half long and features many of John Short's unique versions of sea songs and shanties which were collected by Cecil Sharp. The show also includes a new anthem by Phil Underwood.
Come along and be ready to laugh, cry – and sing!