An international cast of artists from Australia, Turkey and Greece present a contemporary Australian opera on love, war and hope, set during the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915. A work of culturally diverse synthesis that blends musical styles, rhythms and cultural nuances, it uses a contemporary cinematic approach to unfold the narrative in 21 scenes, deviating significantly from the traditional opera form. It delves into the contrasting mindsets of three women – an Australian nurse keen to serve king and country, a Turkish mother in search of her wounded son serving in the Ottoman forces, and a Greek war widow struggling to provide for her daughter on the Greek island of Lemnos, the ANZAC base.
The actions of all three women are driven by love. Love underpins every choice they make, everything they do. Women in War touches on some powerful themes – prejudice, revenge, loss, grief, love, sacrifice, forgiveness and reconciliation. The story reflects the suffering of the forgotten victims of war, those who are left behind: women. In order to survive, they must challenge their traditional roles, run the businesses, work the land, raise and protect their children alone, while enduring their pain and loss with fortitude.
Overcoming their enmity and distrust, these women must come to terms with love for the ‘other’. But, while love conquers all, sometimes fate has other plans in store.
Women in War is on from 30 July – 1 August at the Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne. Duration: 100 minutes, no interval. Tickets: adult and premium: $99, A-Reserve: $79, B-Reserve: $63. Concession is valid for children under 16, full-time students, pension and senior card holders.
For bookings and more information phone 1300 182 183 or go to www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/opera/women-in-war?m=performances