Dramatic portrayal at Kilkenny Arts Festival centers around the inaugural female witchcraft accused in Ireland
The Alice Project, a captivating two-year, multi-episode theatrical exploration, is currently captivating audiences in Kilkenny city, Ireland. This performance event, rated ★★★★☆, is centred around the legend of Dame Alice Kyteler, who is historically recognized as the first woman in Ireland accused of witchcraft and tried for heresy[1].
The project's setting in Kilkenny city, with its medieval-looking streets and architectural landmarks, such as St Mary's Lane, adds an authentic historical context to the performances[2][4]. One of the performance sites for The Alice Project is situated on St Mary's Lane, a small medieval street that appears unchanged since the events explored in the story[3].
The first episode of The Alice Project has already been staged, with the second one, titled "The Words of Alice", written by Emma O'Grady and Medb Lambert. In this episode, a messenger leads the audience to meet Alice Kyteler secretly, one-on-one[1]. The project's immersive drama promises to delve deeper into the life and trial of Dame Alice Kyteler, set against the backdrop of medieval Kilkenny city[1].
The story of Dame Alice Kyteler and her servant Petronella de Meath is steeped in intrigue and controversy. They were accused of witchcraft and heresy, with Petronella being convicted and burned at the stake in Kilkenny on November 3rd, 1324[5]. The events of the project are set in medieval times, offering a glimpse into the past and the social and religious climate of the era[1].
The Alice Project is not just a theatrical performance; it is a reflection of a growing public and artistic interest in reclaiming and understanding Ireland's medieval history, particularly the darker chapters like witch hunts and spiritual persecution[2]. The project ties into Kilkenny’s historical context, where Alice once lived—the connection is so strong that a local pub named Kyteler’s Inn carries her name and celebrates this legacy with medieval-themed decor and storytelling[4].
The project's positive rating of ★★★★☆ indicates a successful blend of historical accuracy, engaging storytelling, and immersive drama, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Ireland's medieval history or theatrical performances[1]. The Alice Project continues to captivate audiences throughout Kilkenny city, offering a unique perspective on Ireland's past and its enduring legacy.
[1] Kilkenny People, "The Alice Project: A Theatrical Exploration of Ireland's First Witch Trial," August 15, 2022. [2] The Irish Times, "The Alice Project: A Theatrical Examination of Medieval Witch Hunts," September 1, 2022. [3] TikTok, "#TheAliceProject" and "#IrishWitchcraft". [4] Kyteler's Inn, "About Us," accessed September 10, 2022. [5] Medieval Kilkenny, "The Trial of Dame Alice Kyteler," accessed September 10, 2022.
The immersive drama of The Alice Project not only captivates audiences but also delves into the intriguing history of entertainment, particularly in the context of Medieval Kilkenny city. The unique blend of historical accuracy, engaging storytelling, and immersive drama, as reflected in the project's positive rating, offers a thought-provoking exploration of Ireland's medieval history, including the legend of Dame Alice Kyteler and the controversial witch trials.
