Live Theatre Performance by THEATRE 180

A compelling true story of the celebration of women’s strength, love and hope in the face of adversity.

Written by Jenny Davis

Directed by Stuart Halusz

Featuring Caitlin Beresford-Ord, Rebecca Davis, Michelle Fornasier, Alex Jones, Helen Searle and Alison van Reeken

Vivian Bullwinkel was one of 65 Australian nurses who boarded the Vyner Brooke in an attempt to flee the Japanese invasion of Singapore in February, 1942. Bombed by Japanese fighter planes and after spending days at sea, she and some other survivors found their way to Radji Beach on Banka Island where they surrendered.

In one of the most atrocious acts of war crimes in our history, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned. The only survivor and witness, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of the bravery of her friends and colleagues; their strength and courage in the face of death sustaining her for the rest of her illustrious life.

21 Hearts relays the resilient Aussie humour displayed by the women in the camp and provides a respectful and authentic voice to those who were silenced, remembering them for who they were and not just for what happened to them. A story of hope, courage, resilience and heart.

Featuring 6 of WA’s most outstanding actors, 21 Hearts is a celebration of the human spirit and an uplifting, inspiring story which reminds us of the great futility of war.

These performances are made possible with the help of presenting partner Department of Veterans' Affairs.

21 Hearts is the centrepiece of the Australian War Memorial’s commemorative program marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Important information

  • This performance will take place in the theatre at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra
  • The venue has reserved seating.
  • The performance duration is 110 minutes with no interval.
  • This event is wheelchair accessible and Companion Cards are accepted. If you have any questions about access and to make a wheelchair accessible booking, please get in touch via info@theatre180.com.au / 0414 345 381
  • The performance is recommended for ages 12 years+
  • Content warning: Explosions, war scenes

Image: Stewart Thorpe Photography

When: 24 July 2025 – 3 August 2025

Location: Theatre, Australian War Memorial

Season performance dates:

Thursday 24 July  |  11am & 7pm
Friday 25 July  |  11am & 7pm
Saturday 26 July  |  2pm & 7pm
Thursday 31 July  |  11am & 7pm
Friday 1 August  |  11am & 7pm
Saturday 2 August  |  2pm & 7pm
Sunday 3 August  |  5pm

 

Get your ticket

Book now

Audience reviews

Presenting Partner

Department of Veterans' Affairs logo

Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

The Australian War Memorial acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, sea and waters. We pay our respects to elders past and present.