WITCH
A Moving Tale of Devilry
In WITCH, we find ourselves at the beginning of the seventeenth century. The Reformation has been introduced, and in Denmark–Norway, King Christian IV rules with an iron hand. In keeping with the spirit of the age, churches, monarchs and their followers across Europe believe that the Devil is actively working to create chaos and undermine both God and society.
Women and wise women in particular — especially those who were unmarried and managed without the support of men — were considered vulnerable to the Devil’s influence and easy prey for his temptations.
WITCH brings audiences close to real historical events and introduces a female community consisting of five historical women: Christenze Kruckow, Elisabeth Klyne, Maren Kneppis, Dorte Kjærulf and Apelone Ibsdatter. They share strong bonds through work, celebrations, relationships and rituals.
Yet they live during the height of the witch hunts in Denmark–Norway. Everyday magic has been outlawed, the campaign against witchcraft is underway, and King Christian IV himself encourages the brutal methods of torture used to force confessions from accused women. Witches are to be “punished without mercy”, and there is widespread agreement that burning at the stake is the appropriate punishment.
In WITCH, the women tell their own stories. Through song and music, audiences are introduced to magical verses and charms drawn from original historical sources, including Norwegian black books, Danish Cyprianus manuscripts and European grimoires.
But who were these women? What devilish acts were they accused of? And why must they be condemned?
Experience a different kind of history lesson that gives a voice to the witches themselves. Be captivated by an enchanting brew of music, beauty, rebellion, chaos and compassion.
A powerful performance that will inform, move, challenge and entertain.
