Performance piece “Sleeplessness” returns to Carriageworks for a screening this Wednesday. To accompany the production, there will be conversations, tea, and Hungarian treats. 

“Sleeplessness” is a 2022 drama-documentary production that explores inherited trauma and memory through performance. It is a solo-performance by writer and director Kaz Therese. The powerful personal narrative meditates on identity and mental health.

Drawing on the struggles of generations of women, the production comments on the effects of migration and institutionalisation. The women in the multidisciplinary production are based on lineages of women in Therese’s family tree. In this way, the audience can understand the impacts of generational trauma. 

“Sleeplessness” came about from Therese’s Mother’s lack of childhood memories. For 18 years, Therese dedicated themselves to discovering their family history. Travelling from their family’s homeland in Budapest, Hungary, back to Sydney, they began to connect the dots of their family history. This remarkable journey of self-discovery inspired “Sleeplessness”.

“Sleeplessness” will screen this Wednesday, 6th August, at 6:30 pm, at Carriageworks. Tickets are available on the Carriageworks or Humanitix website. There will be a talk from Therese and the production’s composer, Anna Liebzeit, after the screening. Also available are Hungarian treats and tea.

Monday Daily producer, Amy, spoke with “Sleeplessness” writer and performer, Kaz Therese, about their production.