Lived Here - Voices from the past
This project uncovers the hidden stories of our local cemetery, revealing the lives of those who shaped our community over the past century. It’s a unique journey into forgotten histories, brought to light through research and storytelling.
Introducing 'Lived here - Voices from the past' — a unique and captivating community theatre project right here in Coffs Harbour.
Lived Here – Voices from the Past is a unique community project that brings Coffs Harbour’s history to life through theatre. Local writers will create monologues based on real lives, performed by actors at the actual gravesites of those who once shaped our town.
Imagine walking through the cemetery as powerful stories unfold around you — intimate, moving, and deeply tied to our heritage. This is more than theatre; it’s a celebration of local history through art.
We invite writers, historians, actors, and the curious to help create this living memory. This project begin July 2025 — stay tuned for details.
More Information
We’re excited to launch a unique creative community project that brings local history to life through storytelling and performance. This project starts on August 3 with performances in line with the end of year school holidays. You can be involved any way you like - write, direct or perform - do one or do them all. We will team you up with the best of all each category.
Write
Local writers will turn research into powerful monologues, capturing the voice and spirit of each person through creative storytelling grounded in real history.
Direct
Direct the performer to bring the story to life. Haven't directed before? This is the best way to start. Work with the writer to understand the text and explore with the performer how to tell the story.
Perform
Community performers will rehearse and workshop the monologues, developing skills and building emotional connections to the stories they bring to life.
Lived Here: Voices from the past
We have explored the archives, newspapers, and family stories to uncover the lives of people buried in our local cemeteries over the past 100 years. This ensures the stories are accurate, respectful, and deeply personal. Here are the stories collected so far for this project—powerful character monologues that bring Coffs Harbour’s history to life.
Check out this Information Pack and the proposed Cemetery Performance Map
Our stories so far
In "The Man Who Shook the Seed," pioneering businessman William Seccombe looks back on his life in Coffs Harbour — from discovering paspalum grass and transforming struggling farms, to helping build the town through generosity and community spirit. Warm, humorous, and deeply human, the monologue celebrates a life spent sowing both seeds and goodwill.
The Man Who Shook the Seed - William Seccombe - 1938