This week I took part in a very exceptional, interactive play called Calvin, an Itinerary.
The play takes us back 500 years into Calvin’s life. The show begins at night in the courtyard of the old city of Geneva. The first scene shows when Calvin first arrived to Geneva in 1536 and his ideas about taking part in the Reform that was just adopted. The spectators join the troupe fleeing Geneva when Calvin is chased away by the people two years later and finds refuge in Strasburg.
The second scene takes place in the courtyard of the house where Calvin lived in Geneva. Before we enter a scene takes place in the street in a mix of old and new where a local calls out of his window on the second floor in a typical local accent and laughs down at the fleeing Huguenots coming to Geneva due to the religious persecutions at that time. Nancy, the American, brings the show into today’s time as she tries to link her families’ history to the time of Calvin.
In the third scene meet Idelette de Bure, Calvin’s wife, and get to know the softer side of him. A messenger from Geneva is sent to persuade him to come back to the chaotic city that needs his guidance. Idelette leads us with her lantern through the city to the next scene played in the town hall where there is room for everyone seeking refuge.
Here we witness the discussion between Calvin and a distraught pastor cannot understand why a Michel Servet, a Spanish doctor and philosopher is burnt on the stake by Calvin’s demand.
Things are starting to change. The Bible has been printed in French, people are being educated, learning to read, schools are being built. Thanks to the Huguenots who at first despised by the locals come from all over France and Europe and Geneva starts becoming and commercial city of many businesses thanks to their expertise.
Mr. Piaget, famous watchmaker, meets his descendant, Jenon and they hug each other overjoyed, each dressed in the clothes that fits their time. We continue our journey to the Calvin’s Auditorium, next to the cathedral. In the last scene we hear teachings he gave the people at the time on conduct, religion, etc.
It was truly a fantastic show and wonderful way to rediscover Geneva!
The poster and photos were copied from the theaters website. Thanks to all the actors, you did a wonderful job bringing Calvin to life and taking us back into the history of Geneva.
http://www.theatredusaulerieur.ch/index.php/actualites
