
Get the story behind the story with the State Theatre Company South Australia's Tangent Talks. Join us for a drink and a panel discussion to explore themes of the next State Theatre play.
Through story, through music, Dear Son will be a groundbreaking theatrical event to honour the rich traditions and wisdoms of fathers passed down through generations, while also exploring the challenges faced by First Nations men today and the importance of family, the power of culture and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Along with his own vivid and poignant prose and poetry, author and editor Thomas Mayo, co-author of The Voice to Parliament Handbook and Kaurareg, Kalkalgal and Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man, invited 12 contributors to write a letter to their son, father or nephew, bringing together a range of perspectives that offered a celebration of First Nations manhood.
“We were the first builders, craftsmen, storytellers, artists, fishermen, hunters, scientists, inventors, explorers, farmers, engineers, warriors, and healers… We are still all these things and so much more. We are a continuum of proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men – the fathers of the longest surviving culture on earth. And now, Dad, as your hard exterior becomes brittle with age, I feel you. As dusk reaches your eyes – eyes that were too bright to look upon in my youth – I see you. I understand you, Dad. I love you. I will always be your dear son.” ~ Thomas writes to his father.
Panelist names will be announced before the event.
Tickets are just $10 and include a glass of wine.
To access booking links for Tangent Talks, visit the State Theatre Company's website closer to the date of the event.
How do I get to the State Library by public transport?
The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.
You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.
Is there car parking near the State Library?
The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.
There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.
Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?
Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.
There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.
How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?
The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.
When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays. The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.
Is there a cafe at the State Library?
Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.
Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.