Hidden Tunes

Every bystander shapes how the story ends. Hidden Tunes is a bold Mandarin musical blending Mando-pop and traditional Chinese instruments, performed with live English subtitles. This original work premiered in 2024 as part of La Mama's Festival of Mother Tongue, receiving critical acclaim and a Green Room Award nomination for "Outstanding Artist in a Leading Role" (Lansy Feng). Set in a prestigious music academy and inspired by the #MeToo movement, the story follows the ripple effects of a sexual harassment case on campus – examining how friends, fellow students and professors respond when the truth unravels. As silence spreads and pressure builds, how would the choices of all the "bystanders" shape the story? Back with new songs, richer stories and a striking new stage design, this year's Hidden Tunes invites you into the heart of a conversation that can no longer be avoided. Will you stand by, or speak up? Hidden Tunes is a Mando-pop musical accompanied by traditional Chinese instruments. Small Ripples' first production was The Best Cabinet Maker, inspired by Chinese furniture makers who came to Melbourne at the turn of the 19th century. The show was sold-out for its four-show run at the Library at the Dock and received positive feedback from audience members. Entry Cost All tickets $25 - Early Bird closes in July