Metropolis: Hidden Thoughts II

In 2013, Human Rights lawyer Julian Burnside QC asked Australians to write letters of support and encouragement to Asylum Seekers in detention on Nauru Island.

Around 2000 letters were sent to Nauru and almost all were returned to the sender undelivered and unopened. Composer Katy Abbott opened many of the letters and together with writer Maureen Johnson, compiled the libretto for the second work in her Hidden Thoughts series.

The work exclusively uses the words contained in the letters and is a reflection of the generous heart of Australians.

The letters exude kindness, compassion, and warmth as they weave everyday stories and mundane domestic activities into stories of home and a sense of place. They are humorous, poignant and generous. The letter writers were not afraid to express outrage at the injustice of detention nor afraid to give effusive gestures using words, drawings and offers of friendship. Being addressed to a particular person, the letters reveal not only the letter writer’s individual character but also their deep concern for the recipient’s wellbeing.

Duration: approx. 1 hour, no interval