Lady Jane Franklin returns

THE life of colonial first lady and sometime New Norfolk resident Jane Franklin will be explored in a fascinating performance touring the state this month. Presented by the musical ensemble Silkweed, Jane Franklin: An Examined Life is a multi-media performance based on the life of Lady Jane Franklin, who as the wife of an early governor of Tasmania contributed much to the development of the arts, education and exploration in the early colony.

Lady Franklin is also particularly pertinent to the Derwent Valley as it was she who planted the willow tree from which Willow Court took its name and is also reputed to have planted a pear tree at the Bush Inn.  As the governor's wife, Lady Franklin spent time at the governor's retreat at Turriff Lodge, New Norfolk. Sir John and Lady Franklin were behind a proposed university at New Norfolk but this did not progress beyond the laying of a foundation stone. Opponents of the proposal uprooted the foundation stone and hurled it over the Turriff Lodge cliff and into the Derwent below.

Silkweed's performance melds original music, voice, drama and visual storytelling to capture the audience's imagination. The production is touring the state and will be in New Norfolk this weekend for a 2pm performance at the War Memorial Hall, Circle St, this Sunday only. 

Tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for children. For more information contact Gail Woodford on 6261 4850 or email gailwoodford@yahoo.com.au