Beyond the stage : aspects of performing arts in South Australia, 1914–1936

World War One had such an effect upon Australia that its weight can still be felt today. Imagine what that impact was like for the people who lived through the War and its aftermath.

Art can both reflect and deflect history. It can also be used to support ‘a great cause’, and then to question its result. The performing arts were an integral part of this process. During the Great War South Australians were exhorted to do their duty – enlist, convince others to enlist, and take part in the ‘great adventure’.  Songs and poems were written, plays performed, concerts given. We were there and we were going to do our bit. British to the bootstraps, where did this leave South Australia’s citizens of German heritage, many of whom had enlisted?

After the War former soldiers, their families, and the community as a whole had to deal with its consequences. Should we try to forget? 

Perhaps the despair of the ‘War to end all wars’, and its aftermath, is most evocatively symbolised by the sad clown Pierrot’s embodiment of doom and chaos, as well as innocence and love.

This exhibition was developed by the State Library of South Australia as part of a research project initiated by University of Adelaide in partnership with Australian Research Council, Flinders University, State Opera of South Australia, State Theatre Company of South Australia, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and Adelaide Cabaret Festival.