The Red Cross Letters - State Extra at Dunstan Playhouse

A profoundly moving insight into the human cost of the Great War for those who waited at home.

Based on a collection held at State Library of South Australia for the past 96 years, The Red Cross Letters incorporates material from letters (recently digitised from over 8,000 case files) sent to the South Australian Red Cross Information Bureau during WW1 by Australians seeking news of their loved ones on the front, and the replies.

The correspondence includes eye witness accounts from military commanders, soldiers, medical staff and mates who fought alongside the lost or wounded.

Devised by award-winning playwright Verity Laughton, The Red Cross Letters evokes the human aspects of the Great War in vivid detail. Words reach across time, creating a profound connection between the present and past, intimately bringing these experiences alive.

This unique interpretation of compelling material will be directed by Andy Packer and feature a live score performed by Matthew Gregan. After its Adelaide season, the production will tour to regional South Australia as part of a number of communities’ ANZAC commemorations.