On the edge of the Adelaide CBD stands the heritage listed West Terrace Cemetery; the final resting place of an estimated 150,000 souls including the mysterious Somerton Man.
With its earliest graves dating back to 1837, this expansive cemetery stands as a monument to the pioneers, leaders, lovers, murderers and villains who once called Adelaide home. Part of the multi award-winning West Terrace Cemeteries Night Tours Program this one-hour guided tour expertly combines theatre with light and sound technology to bring the past to life in a truly unique way. Follow your guide as they weave their way through the headstones recounting stories of love, loss and murder most foul; and watch as long dead characters emerge from the darkness around you.
As the sun set on a balmy Friday evening (March 1) it did little to ease the intense heat of the day and I felt sorry for our tour guide who was clad in a thick cloak and hood.
At each stop along the tour our interactive lanterns came to life, shining shades of white, blue and red light on our surroundings and perfectly setting the mood for the story that was to come. Along with their interchanging lights the lanterns also played sound effects relevant to each story and the sounds of disembodied voices talking, arguing, weeping or screaming could be heard around us. As if that wasn’t unsettling enough, figures dressed in period clothing would randomly appear to stalk the group or recount their own tales of woe.
Their authentic costumes added a visual element to this historical tour and if the actors were affected by the blistering heat they certainly didn’t show it. Each gave a lively (excuse the pun) performance which allowed us to glimpse into the lives of the people whose resting places we visited. Whether they were playing lovers, murderers or politicians the actors entertained from start to finish and special mention should go to the poor young girl who emerged from the sweltering darkness wearing a full length Victorian style dress complete with petticoats and hat.
Although West Terrace Cemetery is the final resting place for many of Adelaide’s most notable historical figures, ‘Mavericks, Madness and Murder Most Foul!’ focuses largely on lesser-known individuals, allowing the audience to glimpse into the lives of ordinary people and see a side of Adelaide not covered in history books. The entire tour is delivered in an entertaining yet respectful manner, which pays homage to the dead and the significance of the setting.
