Australia’s participation in the war in Afghanistan is the nation’s longest ever military involvement. What happens when an Australian soldier, who is carrying a dark secret, is forced to confront the full force of the family that he left behind?
Nigel Featherstone
A song cycle commissioned by the Goulburn Regional Conservatorium of Music with The Street Theatre, and premiered at The Street in 2018, with further performances in Sydney and Goulburn. Words by Nigel Featherstone and music by James Humberstone.
Having completed his latest tour of Afghanistan, an Australian soldier is on leave and taking the opportunity to return to his family’s farm in regional New South Wales – he is looking forward to resting. However, as he makes his way home he is confronted by news that is both life-affirming and devastating, which pushes him to reveal a dark secret that clings like a ghost. Ultimately he must question everything he knows. What sort of man is he? What does it mean to be brave? And what sort of future might be waiting for his family and himself?
Photos: Shelly Higgs Novel Photographic, courtesy of The Street & GRC
If you are interested in programming or performing The Weight of Light, we can provide you with a score, video, and professional recordings.
The following excerpts were recorded in the dress rehearsal.
Education kit
Nigel and James made an education kit based on the words and music they wrote for The Weight of Light. You can download it for free:
James Humberstone 