KIN is excited to announce the premiere of Judith’s Return at MONA FOMA 2021, to take place on the 23rd and 24th of January at Theatre Royal, Hobart.

This is a soaring, romantic and full-throttle new opera, inspired by the story of Judith — a biblical heroine and murderous widow who (supposedly) seduced an invading army general and chopped off his head — a contemporary reflection on crime and virtue.

Judith’s Return has been six years in the making, including the lengthy process of gaining access to Białołęka — one of eastern Europe’s largest detention centres. Working with a Polish translator and sound recordist, James Brennan ran a six week program in the prison’s gymnasium with nine men imprisoned at Białołęka. Joining these absent men on stage is renowned soprano Jacqueline Dark in the role of Judith, and a performer and ex-offender from Risdon Women’s prison, to be announced.