The Memorandium is an exploration of memory – the stories, feelings, thoughts and impressions that reside within us all: memories that are brought together through imaginative storytelling. Hiding in old post-office pigeon-holes are a number of presents and packages – abandoned, lost, forgotten or perhaps never given. In The Memorandium, these presents are unwrapped and passed around and shared with the audience. Together we then create a story, formed and inspired from a collection of memories aroused from the sensation of these old or forgotten objects. Puppets emerge from boxes, suitcases and pigeon holes – as breathtaking as our shared memories and stories.

The Memorandium at Theatre Works in 2012

Penelope Bartlau – Creator, performer, co-director & producer

Jason Lehane – Set designer, lighting designer & co-director

Leah Scholes – Composer, sound designer & performer

Dan Goronszy – Installation design, puppet maker & puppetry director

Caitlin Barclay – Lighting operation & stage assistant

Alana Teasdale – Stage manager & Sound operator

Kelly Mc Cosker – Installation assistant & letter creator

Elsea Bartlau – Installation assistant

Voice-over memories – Bern & Elsea Bartlau, Jason Lehane, & Fitzroy High students

This project was created on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong / Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to their Elders past and present. We acknowledge and honour the unbroken spiritual, cultural and political connection they have maintained to this unique place for more than 2000 generations.