Voices of courage take centre stage at Lind Lane Theatre

Memories are powerful moments in time.  Director Glenda Campi knows this only too well. She recalls many years ago watching an emotionally charged movie, Paradise Road, that struck a chord, and she wondered if a play had been written on the subject.

With her love of documentary dramas, Glenda was on the search, and gladly found the book Song of Survival Women Interned. The book is Helen Colijn’s extraordinary account of three years’ imprisonment during World War 11. She was imprisoned on Sumatra where Dutch, Australian and English women prisoners sustained themselves by creating a unique vocal orchestra. It was lead by musicians Margaret Dryburgh and Norah Chambers. Their amazing memories of the beautiful music, such as that of Bach and Beethoven, the play by Ray and Eleanor Harder were based on this remarkable true story.

Glenda shared with the cast her amazement at the power, the everyday grit, and courage of these inspiring women and children amid the brutality and squalor, while trying to keep their spirits raised.

It is fitting with Anzac Day being on Opening Night and our time of remembrance for those who fought, suffered, and died for our freedom, this is the most opportune time to acknowledge the little-known story of the uplifting influence of the singing group at Lind Lane Theatre’s Song of Survival.  

The season runs from April 25 until May 3 with bookings available at lindlane.com.au/whats-on. Enquiries at 1300 732 764.

From left, Gail Loader Champion, Susie Bushnell, Lynda Canning, Lara Faquharson, Amber Taylor, Luoise Tasker and Kerry Jamin.