Living in the Light
THE STORY OF HILDEGARD OF BINGEN
Written and performed by Alison Neil
Directed by David Collison
Hildegard of Bingen has been called the “Leonardo da Vinci of the 12th Century”. Living in turbulent and dangerous times, she was a musician, healer, artist, visionary, theologian, biographer, playwright and poet.
Beginning as a hermit in a cell within a monastery, she rose to an unheard-of position for a woman – preaching in cathedrals, giving advice to an Emperor and criticizing the Pope.
Her writing about sex was extraordinarily frank and remarkably detailed – especially as she was a nun!
Her illustrations are now recognized as major works of art; her writing on medicine is now valued by alternative practitioners, and her music topped the charts of Classic FM - 850 years after it was written.
Hildegard’s entertaining and moving story of friendship, love, and struggle against authority is brought to life in this enthralling production.
ACT ONE Running time: 46 minutes
Interval
ACT TWO Running time: 56 minutes
THERE IS NO ONE HOUR VERSION
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" I would like to thank you on behalf of the Festival committee for a performance that had the audience totally absorbed from beginning to end, including myself and several committee members. I have had a number of favorable comments since the event".
TENBY ARTS FESTIVAL 2019
“The play is surprising, funny, informative, but ultimately very moving and was certainly one of the highlights or our season. Alison Neil is a most accomplished actress and writer who takes us through Hildegard’s life from youth to old age in a most perfectly measured and inspired performance.” SUSANNAH MAYOR, NATIONAL TRUST
“Alison Neil’s presentation was spellbinding, the scenery was delightful; enjoyed by all who came.” DRIMPTON NEWS
“A treat… this lively and touching story.” BEDFORDSHIRE FEDERATION OF WIS
“Her recreations are truly amazing, and transport you right into the time and character.” USK CASTLE FRIENDS
“Always a pleasure to promote your shows – still glowing here with good reports from venues.” ARTSREACH RURAL TOURING SCHEME
“I think you have surpassed yourself this time – I was enthralled.”
ANN CREESE – DOLMAN THEATRE, NEWPORT
“Just to say how much I enjoyed your performance. It was a stunning interpretation and the production was great.” AUDIENCE MEMBER, BACKWELL THEATRE
“What a splendid performance! It was fascinating and we learnt a lot. Your transformation from 8 to 82 was remarkable!” AUDIENCE MEMBER, VILLAGE HALL PERFORMANCE
“Thank you for such a great evening! It was excellent...an inspiring interpretation. All four of us thought you and the story were superb!" AUDIENCE MEMBER, VILLAGE HALL PERFORMANCE