Set in Stone The Cell Block Theatre

Set in Stone is the fascinating story of how a derelict wing of Darlinghurst Gaol, home to Sydney's most notorious female criminals, became the Cell Block Theatre, the hub of Australia's avant-garde theatre, music and dance scene in the 1960s and '70s. A place of creative freedom and ingenuity, this extraordinary venue saw early performances from artists such as John Bell, Yvonne Kenny, Peter Sculthorpe, David Malouf, Jim Sharman and Nick Cave. Richly illustrated with striking archival photographs, Set in Stone is the first book to explore this iconic cultural site and the ground-breaking works that emerged from its rough sandstone walls.

Deborah Beck is an artist and writer who has held 15 solo exhibitions in Sydney and Melbourne, and has participated in over 80 group exhibitions throughout Australia. She is the author of Hope in Hell and is currently a lecturer and archivist at the National Art School.