Perth Symphony Orchestra continues its evocative WA Stories chamber music series with a powerful tribute to a true pioneer: Edith Dircksey Cowan from 25-26 July 2025.
Far more than a history lesson, WA Stories Chapter II, Story 4: Edith Dircksey Cowan is an immersive experience that brings the past into vivid focus, highlighting Cowan’s enduring legacy in the fight for women’s rights, education and justice.
The concert program features a stunning collection of music written by female composers, many of whom created bold, beautiful art in defiance of the social limitations placed on them at the time. Now, their music is finally having its moment to shine. It’s an echo of the same fearless spirit that defined Cowan’s life.
Story 4: Edith Dircksey Cowan is one of three concerts in the WA Stories Chapter II series, offering audiences an intimate and inspiring journey into the lives of Western Australia’s most influential figures. They remind us of the stories that shaped our state, and the spirit that continues to drive it forward.
Blending live music, spoken word, and stunning visuals, this powerful performance tells the remarkable story of Cowan’s life, from early personal tragedy to her groundbreaking election as the first woman in any Australian parliament, and her historic achievement as the first woman in the British Empire to pass a bill into law.
Creative Director of Perth Symphony Orchestra Fiona Campbell OAM said:
“I studied at ECU and I’m embarrassed to admit that before researching this concert, I didn’t really know very much about Edith Dircksey Cowan! I didn’t fully grasp just how radical Edith’s achievements were for a woman of her time, which makes them all the more extraordinary.
Honestly, Edith is the boss! I had no idea about the personal tragedies she endured, her generosity of spirit, or the sheer scale of change she helped create for every woman in this state. Everyone should come along to find out the real reason she’s on our fifty-dollar note.”
Experience the life and legacy of Edith Cowan through powerful music, storytelling, and visuals in PSO’s unforgettable tribute to a true WA icon.
One woman’s story. A state’s transformation. A concert that brings it all to life.
Perth Symphony WA Stories Chapter II, Story 4: Edith Dircksey Cowan runs 25 and 26 July at Hacket Hall, WA Museum Boola Bardip. Perth Cultural Centre, Perth.
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/wa-stories-series-edith-cowan
Website: https://perthsymphony.com/concerts-and-tickets/wa-stories-25
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/perthsymphony/
Photo credits: Trik Photography
