This Black History Month, a powerful historical drama that explores the remarkable true story of Joseph Philippe Lemercier Laroche, the only known Black passenger aboard RMS Titanic, comes to Museum of Liverpool on Saturday 17 October.
Blending history, identity and human drama, ‘Laroche’ explores the life of the Haitian-born engineer, navigating race, class, love and belonging in early twentieth-century Europe. Through intimate storytelling and historical insight, the play sheds light on a largely forgotten figure whose presence on Titanic challenges the narratives we think we know about history.
Written and directed by Dr Carlette Norwood, ‘Laroche’ was inspired by a visit to Liverpool’s Maritime Museum, where Dr Norwood watched a reenactment about a first class Titanic passenger. Following this Dr Norwood began to consider if there had been any Black passengers aboard Titanic and through her research became immersed in the story of Laroche.
Playwright, Dr Carlette Norwood said: “Joseph Laroche’s story is one of resilience and perseverance, and yet it has been largely forgotten, especially in popular culture. Through this play, we aim to change that.
“This is more than just a historical drama; it’s a reclamation of a piece of Black history that has been lost in time. Laroche’s legacy lives on, and we are honoured to share his story.
“It is exciting to bring his story to a Liverpool audience and to the city which has such strong connections to Titanic for the first time.”
‘Laroche’ will be performed at Museum of Liverpool on Saturday 17 October from 1pm.
Book tickets: https://www.liverpoolmuseums.
Tickets are £17.00, with concessions available.
Opened in 2012, the exhibition, ‘Titanic and Liverpool: The Untold Story’ marked the centenary of the ship’s sinking by exploring Liverpool’s significant links to the famous liner. Due to the huge popularity of the exhibition, it became a permanent gallery. Now, as part of Maritime Museum’s redevelopment the celebrated gallery will return refreshed and revitalised.
Both Maritime Museum and International Slavery Museum are due to reopen in 2029.
Explore more Black History Month events and online collections and stories at National Museums Liverpool: https://www.liverpoolmuseums.