Waves + Lines is a multimedia song cycle by New Zealand composer Gemma Peacocke for soprano, electronics and chamber ensemble, adapted from Eliza Griswold’s book, I Am the Beggar of the World: Landays from Contemporary Afghanistan.

The ultraconservative regime of the Taliban has meant that the lives of Afghan women are largely invisible to the outside world. Landays, poems comprising a single rhyming couplet on subjects like love, grief, home and war, offer a surprising and vivid glimpse into this secret world.

Adapted from Eliza Griswold’s book, I Am the Beggar of the World: Landays from Contemporary Afghanistan, Peacocke’s evocative work explores the passion, desperation and often humour of these women who are trapped in a seemingly veiled existence.

Guests:
Georgie Darvidis- soprano
Hamish Gullick- double bass
Felicia King- projections