The Last Princess of Lebanon

The Last Princess of Lebanon is my one woman show which gently traces my great grandmother’s remarkable journey, from her upbringing within the grand palaces of Beiteddine to her sudden wedding at the age of just fifteen. It follows her migration to Australia, her struggles as a mother and wife to an abusive partner, and her eventual success as a businesswoman, carving out a life in the quiet town of Dalby, Queensland. My hometown. Intertwined with this Princess’s tale is mine, as I seek to reclaim what remains of her within me, stored in my body. I consider the role of This narrative is but one of many personal stories that unveil the intricate tapestry of contemporary Australia—a land shaped by colonisation, immigration, patriarchy, and prejudice, yet buoyed by resilience, love, family, and community.

Initiated by HOTA’s ArtKeeper Artist Residency in 2023, the project has since received support from Gold Coast City Council’s RADF Quick Grants and Activate Arts Fund, BEMAC as well as Studio1’s Testing Site program.

Creative Team

Writer/Performer/Director | Nadia Milford

Music/Sound Design | Samira El Koussa and Anna Whitaker

Set/Costume Design | Penny Challen

Dramaturgy | Aleea Monsour and previously Wesley Enoch and Belloo Creative (Caroline Dunphy,

Kathryn Kelly, Katherine Lyall-Watson)

Stage Manager | Damian Tatum

Producer | Maisie Crosdale and Nicholas Southey (Qtouring)

Images by Georgia Haupt | Cinematography Jade Ellis | Musician Samira El Koussa