THEATRE: The Dictionary of Lost Words - QPAC

Title: The Dictionary of Lost Words

Presented By: State Theatre Company of South Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, and QPAC

Genre: Theatre

Synopsis: Based on the best-selling novel by Pip Williams, The Dictionary of Lost Words brings to life the hidden power of words in an adaptation by Verity Laughton. Set in 1886, it follows four-year-old Esme Nicoll, who becomes intrigued by the Oxford English Dictionary's creation. As she listens to her father and his colleagues decide which words make the cut, Esme secretly compiles a more magical dictionary from the discarded words. This sweeping tale spans Esme’s childhood, the women's suffrage movement, and the First World War. Filled with historical depth and emotional resonance, this production highlights the hidden contributions of women to the Oxford English Dictionary.

Performance Dates: April 26th – May 10th, 2025

Performance Location and Address: Playhouse, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) Cultural Centre, Grey Street, South Bank, Brisbane

Ticket Costs: $89 - $139

Ticket Link: Buy Tickets

Warnings:

• Strong coarse language

• Adult themes

• Smoke machine used

Recommended Age: 16+

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes, including an interval

Cast:

• Kathryn Adams

• Arkia Ashraf

• Ksenja Logos

• Brian Meegan

• Johnny Nasser

• Angela Nica Sullen

• Shannen Alyce Quan

• James Smith

Creative Team: Directed by Jessica Arthur

Other Information:

• Exclusive Event: Become a Friend of QPAC to secure seats for an exclusive panel discussion with author Pip Williams and playwright Verity Laughton.

• Discounts Available:

  • Concessions: Available for pension and companion card holders on selected price reserves.

  • Group Discounts: Available for groups of 8+.

  • School Groups: Available for groups of 12+.