Credit Lawrence Abu Hamdan
Two performances bring together audio evidence to confront the violence of borders in the Middle East.
A newly commissioned performance by composer Matthew Herbert and sound-designer and documentary maker Rana Eid, Sykes-Picot reflects on the legacy of a clandestine agreement made over 100 years ago, by British and French diplomats Mark Sykes and François Georges-Picot, to define their respective spheres of influence in the Middle East.
Drawing on research into the aerial soundscape of Lebanon, conducted between May 2020 and May 2021, Abu Hamdan’s Air Pressure documents 2,412 instances of Israeli fighter jets and drones. Delivered chronologically, as a diary with live audio processing, the performance analyses the relationship between background noise and atmospheres of violence. Performed by Abu Hamdan with live sound design by Moe Choucair.
Book two ticketed events as part of the Lawrence Abu Hamdan: Repercussions takeover and get 20% off, book three or more and get 30% off.
Age limit:
Under 5s are not permitted. Under 14s must be accompanied by someone aged 14 or over.
Content Considerations:
This performance will feature potentially distressing sounds including recordings of weapons being used; alongside references to violence.
Stage times:
19:30 - 20:15 - Air Pressure
20:15 - 20:35 - Interval
20:35 - 21:15 - Sykes-Picot
Stage times are approximate and subject to change.
Repercussions is generously supported by Cockayne Grants for the Arts, a Donor Advised Fund, held at The Prism Charitable Trust. The new work by Lawrence Abu Hamdan is commissioned by the Barbican and FIGURA with additional support from the Commissioning Council and the Fondazione Between Art and Film.
Founding members of the Commissioning Council include: Anastasia Bukhman/Bukhman Foundation, Stephanie Camu, Aarti Lohia/SP Lohia Foundation, Mark and Dana Strong, Tia Collection and Brian Yue & Claire Bi/Cheng-Lan Foundation.
In an age where it is harder to believe what we see, sound is becoming increasingly vital evidence for political resistance.
Discover other events in the programme which explore the urgent and expansive concept of sonic rights:
Theatre and Dance: Autumn/Winter 2026
Unmissable theatre and dance from around the world...
Hear from the 'Private Ear'
Learn more about Lawrence Abu Hamdan's work in audio analysis and aural testimony.
Theatre
Location
The Barbican Theatre is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
