If you’re after something truly special that connects you to the heart of Western Australia’s history, the WA Stories series offers a cultural experience like no other. It’s not just a night of music—it’s a deep dive into the extraordinary lives of those who shaped our state, blending live performances with captivating storytelling and stunning visuals. Whether you’re passionate about local history or simply appreciate a unique night out, these shows promise to take you on a journey through time, right in the heart of Perth.
Immersive performances in an iconic setting
Under the awe-inspiring presence of Otto the blue whale in Hackett Hall at WA Museum Boola Bardip, each performance draws you into the life of a different West Australian icon. These concerts aren’t just about hearing a story—they’re about feeling it. From trailblazing dancers to ordinary people living through extraordinary times, WA Stories brings the past to life in a way that feels both intimate and grand.
The first performance in the series, WA Stories: Bishop and Bush, offered a compelling look at the life of WA’s first Anglican Bishop, Matthew Blagden Hale, and set the tone for what this series aims to achieve: a powerful connection to the state’s rich heritage through music and storytelling. With two more performances still to come, this series is shaping up to be one of Perth’s most unique cultural offerings.
Discover the legacy of Lucette Aldous
One of the highlights of the series is Prima ‘A Dance Journey‘, a tribute to Lucette Aldous, whose remarkable career made waves far beyond Western Australia. Her partnership with the legendary Rudolf Nureyev is well-known in the ballet world, but her influence also left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of WA.
The performance doesn’t stop at music—it combines live ballet, images, and storytelling to paint a picture of Lucette’s journey. Whether or not you’re familiar with ballet, this promises to be a beautifully crafted, immersive tribute to a woman who redefined dance in this state. With intimate live performances woven into the show, Prima offers a rare opportunity to experience history through movement and sound. Catch it on Friday, 27 September or Saturday, 28 September.
Experience the resilience of Albert Facey
For many Western Australians, Albert Facey’s A Fortunate Life is more than just a book—it’s a touchstone. His life story, told with such simplicity and grace, is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Born into a time of horse-drawn transport, Facey lived through two world wars and tremendous personal loss, yet still considered himself lucky.
Hope, Hardship and a Fortunate Life: Albert Facey, narrated by Facey’s own grandchild, brings his story to life in a new way. Accompanied by an emotive orchestral score, it captures the struggles and triumphs of a man whose “ordinary” life became one of Australia’s most beloved memoirs. A heartfelt and personal take on one of WA’s most cherished stories, this performance on Friday, 11 October and Saturday, 12 October, is not to be missed.
Your chance to experience WA’s history come to life
With both Prima and Hope, Hardship, and a Fortunate Life still to come, it’s the perfect time to discover these intimate performances, designed to connect you with Western Australia’s heritage in a fresh, powerful way. These aren’t just concerts—they’re windows into the lives that helped shape the state we live in today.
WA Stories season details:
When:
- Prima: A Dance Journey: 27 & 28 September 2024
- Hope, Hardship, and a Fortunate Life: 11 & 12 October 2024
Where:
WA Museum Boola Bardip, Hackett Hall
Tickets:
On sale now at Perth Symphony Orchestra
