Anyone from Melbourne will recognise the name Pentridge Prison, being the original city jail which took in its first prisoners in 1851. It was closed in 1997 and the general precinct is now being redeveloped into apartment blocks, but the main prison buildings are being restored.
In late 1917, Adela Pankhurst, daughter of Emmeline Pankhurst, was placed in the prison for her rallying of the people, particularly women, against war and especially conscription. It was exactly 100 years yesterday since her supporters went to Pentridge and sang to Adela from outside the walls.
The Street Opera 'Serenading Adela' was performed last night inside the walls of Pentridge and we were privileged to be in the audience and to enjoy a wonderful and very professional performance.
The final message was, as ever, we need peace in our lives not war. A very apt sentiment for our times!
Will we ever learn!
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