Visionary

Hildegard von Bingen is an abbess living a monastic life in the 12th century. She has experienced visions of a religious and allegorical nature since childhood, but for decades has told nearly no one. Recently, she experienced a vision of far greater magnitude than any other she ever had, in which a voice from Heaven tells her to speak and write about her visions so that others may hear and read them. She faces great self-doubt in accomplishing this task, which drives her to sickness. She talks to her closest collaborator and friend, Volmar, about this, who tells her that she has degraded herself in her mind from over-humility and must remember that she is indeed capable of the creative endeavor at hand. Volmar uplifts Hildegard’s mind and spirit, encouraging her to pursue her task of writing what will become her great visionary book, Scivias.
 

Steven Naylor, composer

Steven Naylor, librettist
Featuring Brianna England as Hildegard and Katherine Pracht Phares as Volmar
Steven Naylor, piano
Brianna England, director

Brianna England, costumer

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Premiered: April 14th, 2021 at Bowling Green State University 

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