The Dictionary of Lost Words

The stage adaptation of Pip Williams’ novel, The Dictionary of Lost Words, presented by Sydney Theatre Company and State Theatre Company South Australia, is a mesmerizing journey into the world of words and the power they hold. Directed by Jessica Arthur and adapted by Verity Laughton, this production delivers a poignant and thought-provoking experience that resonates long after the final curtain falls.

The Dictionary of Lost Words is a must-see

A Captivating Adaptation

The opening night at the Arts Centre Melbourne was a celebration of artistry and storytelling. The production team has done a remarkable job in bringing the novel to life, with lush sets and period costumes that transport the audience to early 20th century England. The attention to detail is exquisite, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the captivating narrative.

Stellar Performances

The cast delivered outstanding performances, breathing life into the characters and their stories. Brett Archer, Rachel Burke, Brenna Harding, Ksenja Logos, Angela Mahlatjie, Chris Pitman, Carlos Sanson Jr., and Anthony Yangoyan all shine in their respective roles, portraying a range of emotions with depth and authenticity. Their chemistry on stage is palpable, adding layers of complexity to an already richly woven tale.

Word, Meaning and HIStories

It’s 1886 and the very first edition of the Oxford English Dictionary is being compiled. Four-year-old Esme Nicoll has a front row seat. Well, she’s hiding under the sorting table, anyway. As her father and his male colleagues decide which words stay and which go, Esme collects the discarded (often gendered) scraps to compile her own far more radical, far more magical dictionary.

A sweeping historical tale, The Dictionary of Lost Words follows Esme from her childhood in the 1880s, into adulthood at the height of the women’s suffrage movement and the beginning of the First World War.

This vivid, new play brings to life a stunning and transportive reflection on the love between a daughter and her father, at a time when the women’s rights movement was first gaining traction, into an unmissable night at the theatre.

The Legacy of Esme Nicoll

The Dictionary of Lost Words is a triumph of storytelling and a testament to the power of words. It is a production that will leave you spellbound, pondering the meaning of language and its ability to shape our world. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this enchanting play – it is a journey you won’t soon forget.

Stage adaptation of bestseller finds power in the silences

Buy tickets now and experience the magic of The Dictionary of Lost Words before the show ends on 17th March 2024 at the Arts Centre Melbourne.

More from Glamorazzi

Young,Illusionist,Performing,Tricks,On,A,Stage

OZ: The Cirque Experience at Alex Theatre, St Kilda

A bold, modern, and emotionally sharp production - OZ: The Cirque Experience now live at Alex Theatre, St Kilda.
DEWEY-AND-BAND

Melbourne Gets Loud: School of Rock, The Musical Hits the Stage

Broadway’s hit musical School of Rock has arrived in Melbourne for a limited season this November. Experience electrifying live music, a powerhouse cast, and unforgettable family entertainment at the historic...
Pop Your Cork at the Dazzling Blanc de Blanc Encore at Spiegel Haus Melbourne

Step Inside Blanc de Blanc Encore at Spiegel Haus Melbourne

Experience Blanc de Blanc Encore at Spiegel Haus Melbourne - a champagne-fueled blend of circus, cabaret and comedy with glittering acrobatics and dazzling spectacle performance.
Lyrebird premiere

A Forest’s Echo: The Message of the Lyrebird Stays With You

Discover The Message of the Lyrebird, an award-winning environmental documentary echoing the sounds of human impact and inspiring conservation action.
Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne

Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne: A Season of Lights, Magic, Treats & Joy

Discover the best Christmas events in Melbourne. From free lights and markets to festive shows, kids’ activities, workshops and Christmas Day dining – there is something for everybody and every mood.

You May Also Like

istockphoto-1135293039-612x612
Best Ramen in Melbourne: Where Local Makers Perfect the Craft
Co Thu Quan Richmond Melbourne
Best Vietnamese Family Restaurants In Melbourne Loved by Local Vietnamese
Person silhouetted under a glowing green night sky in rural Victoria.
Why Stargazing Might Be Melbourne’s Most Underrated Summer Experience
Maffra retreat river house accommodation
Why Maffra, Gippsland Is the Perfect Romantic Retreat from Melbourne?
Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne
Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne: A Season of Lights, Magic, Treats & Joy
Melbourne city skyline at sunset during summer 2025
Summer in Melbourne: Activities Worth Trying in the City
Japanese-Garden-1
The Inner North's Secret: Decoding Japanese Design in Melbourne
Pop Your Cork at the Dazzling Blanc de Blanc Encore at Spiegel Haus Melbourne
Step Inside Blanc de Blanc Encore at Spiegel Haus Melbourne

Videos

GLAMORAZZI GUIDES - CURATED WITH JOY (COMING SOON!)

BEST MUSICALS OF ALL TIME
BEST ASIAN RESTAURANTS IN MELBOURNE
BEST FRENCH RESTAURANTS IN MELBOURNE
BEST RESTAURANTS TO EAT SPICY FOOD IN MELBOURNE
BEST COFFEE IN MELBOURNE
BEST WINE BARS IN MELBOURNE
BEST WINERIES IN ADELAIDE

More from Glamorazzi

istockphoto-1135293039-612x612

Best Ramen in Melbourne: Where Local Makers Perfect the Craft

NEW EXCERPT
Co Thu Quan Richmond Melbourne

Best Vietnamese Family Restaurants In Melbourne Loved by Local Vietnamese

A love letter from a Vietnamese food lover exploring Vietnamese cuisine through Melbourne family owned restaurants.
Person silhouetted under a glowing green night sky in rural Victoria.

Why Stargazing Might Be Melbourne’s Most Underrated Summer Experience

Discover why stargazing Melbourne offers calm, close-to-home nights under the sky. Learn where to go, what to bring, and how to enjoy.
Maffra retreat river house accommodation

Why Maffra, Gippsland Is the Perfect Romantic Retreat from Melbourne?

A slow, romantic escape to Maffra, Gippsland, sharing our authentic retreat experience, itinerary, nature moments and tips for planning your own countryside getaway in Victoria.
Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne

Unwrapping Christmas in Melbourne: A Season of Lights, Magic, Treats & Joy

Discover the best Christmas events in Melbourne. From free lights and markets to festive shows, kids’ activities, workshops and Christmas Day dining – there is something for everybody and every mood.