An epic story of love, migration and identity unfolding across continents and decades.

Saints of Damour is a poignant and powerful new work by playwright James Elazzi, set against the backdrop of 1970s Lebanon. Pierre, a young man living in the humble village of Damour, south of Beirut, is deeply connected to his roots and community. When civil war erupts, Pierre is forced to leave behind the life he knew, including his deep ties to his village and the love of his life. To survive, he enters into an arranged marriage and migrates to Australia, determined to build a new life.

But can anyone truly leave their past behind? Despite his attempts to forge multiple new identities, from working on a tomato farm in rural Queensland to navigating the bustling streets of Darlinghurst, Pierre finds himself haunted by memories of the home and people he was forced to abandon. As the weight of the past catches up with him, Pierre is confronted with the realization that some parts of who we are cannot be erased.

Saints of Damour is a moving exploration of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging. It honors voices lost to history and reflects on the privilege of living authentically, offering a reminder of the importance of embracing the truth of who we are, even when it feels impossible to reconcile with the past.

Presented with the support of Qtopia Sydney, the performance will be followed by a Q&A with the creative team on Thursday, 27th March for all ticketholders.

CREATIVE TEAM

Proudly presented by Qtopia Sydney, The City and Sydney and James Elazzi Productions

Playwright: James Elazzi

Director: Anthony Skuse

Executive Producer: Nola Bartolo

Producer: James Elazzi

Cast: Antony Makhlouf, Deborah Galanos, Saro Lepejian, Nicole Chamoun and Max Cattana

Stage Mananger: Matilda Holton

Production Design: James Smithers

Lighting: Tarvis Kecek