Caretaker of Lost Selves

24 Aug

A multi-arts performance exploring identity, home, and the creative spark

Caretaker of Lost Selves explores the deeply human idea that throughout life, we forget vital aspects of ourselves—from the creative spark to the simple ability to laugh. Reconnecting with these elements of the lost self can be a crucial part of rebuilding our sense of place and belonging in the world.

As a multidisciplinary performance work, the piece suggests that when we "lose" parts of our identity, they are not permanently gone. Instead, they have been collected by a special caretaker who, in time, makes gentle steps to reunite them with their rightful owner.

The work originated as a multi-arts performance piece at the Albany Entertainment Centre for the Breaksea Festival in 2021. It was later reprised in 2024 as a special collaboration with the University of Western Australia's Conservatorium of Music, giving voice to the rich and diverse stories of Western Australia while showcasing regional and emerging artists.

Artistic Director - Matt Reuben James Ward
Director of Music - Pia Harris
Director of Composition - Jonathan Brain
First Nations Artist / Cultural Consultant - Rachael Colmer
This project was made possible with support from Lotterywest, Regional Arts WA, City of Albany's Vancouver Arts Centre, Albany Entertainment Centre, and UWA Conservatorium of Music.
Breaksea acknowledges and thanks its ongoing program and organisational sponsors: the Government of Western Australia, the City of Albany, Lotterywest / Healthway, the Kids Research Institute Australia, SEW ARTS, Circuit West and the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.