Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, Störling Dance Theater’s “Book of Kells” returns to the historic Folly Theater March 17-18.
Originally premiered in 2022, “Book of Kells” is a ballet inspired by the iconic work of art of the same name, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels. The production highlights both Scottish and Irish heritage.
“The more I researched and learned about the Book of Kells and its history, the more fascinated I became,” said Artistic Director Mona Störling-Enna. “I began to envision what it was like for the individuals in this village and how they were desperate for what the monks brought. I knew I had to create a new work.”
The exquisitely illustrated book comes to life through Störling-Enna’s choreographic vision, Celtic music, hand-crafted costumes and innovative production elements, including stunning lighting design by Sean Glass. Complete with live narration by Kelley Reitmeier, “Book of Kells” tells the story of the book’s creation and the cultural impact its message had on a pagan nation.
Audience members will be transported to a land where culture, sacrifice and forgiveness collide and will leave touched by the original inspiration the Book of Kells brought to the world.
To purchase tickets to “Book of Kells” or for more information about Störling Dance Theater, visit www.storlingdance.org. Performances are Friday, March 17 and Saturday, March 18 at 7 p.m. at Folly Theater.
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The Book of Kells is an artful masterpiece containing the four Gospels of the Bible – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. It was created on the island of Iona by monks over the course of 200 years. Treasured for the literal gems it held, the Book of Kells withstood a Viking invasion and evasion of capture before finally landing in Kells, Ireland where it became known as the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is currently on display in Dublin, Ireland, and is known as a European cultural icon and one of the top ten tourist attractions in Ireland.
