In partnership with Circolombia and Rebel Manifesto Aerial, Imagineer brings you a spectacle performance combining theatre, circus, aerial performance, and live music telling the epic story of the Coming of the Gaels to Ireland. A mystical story which culminates in a mighty battle between the Tuatha Dé Danann – (the tribe of the gods) and the Milesians to determine the fate of the land.
An ancient tale from the Book of Invasion of goddesses and high kings, of adventure and endeavour that takes place on both land and ocean. One that spans 400 years taking the audience from Egypt to Ireland with themes that resonate today’s migration, cultural co-existence, and acceptance.
Milesians – created by Artistic Director Kathi Leahy – partnering with Felicity Simpson and Performers from Circolombia, Luka Owen and Rebel Manifesto Aerial and Johnny Donnelly – Arcana. Milesians feature a professional and community cast.
Post-Show event – A curated showcase of Irish & African community music and dance collaborations and cultural fusions will take place on the set of Milesians after each performance.
Besides this spectacle adventure with Milesians, you can enjoy a fun, family day out where you can experience the beauty, wealth and power of the ocean and discover the threats it faces at Turning the Tide – An Ocean Fair.
THE STORY
Niul son of a Scythian Warrior King marries Scota, daughter of an Egyptian Pharaoh. They have a child, Gadelius, and one day the child is bitten by a snake. The healer is called, and upon healing the child, makes a prophecy that the child’s descendants will wander the earth for 400 years before settling on an Island free of snakes.
So begins a long journey that leads the Milesians from Egypt through Africa and Europe, before reaching Galicia, Northern Spain. One night from the top of an ancient tower Ith, descendant of the child, looks out across the ocean and through the mist sights an island. Ith sets sail with his son and together they discover the Island of Ireland occupied by the supernatural race – the Tuatha Dé Danann who view their arrival with suspicion and fear. And so the story begins….
Imagineer is working with a range of partners to deliver this Coventry City of Culture 2021 project including: Coventry City of Culture Trust; Johnny Donnelly, ARCANA (Ireland); The Canal and River Trust; Warwickshire Wildlife Trust; Circolombia; Rebel; Manifesto Aerial and Media Mania.
FLOW is funded by Coventry City of Culture Trust, Arts Council England Cultural Recovery Fund 2, Coventry General Charities, Medwell Hyde, and Coventry City Council and the European Social Fund.
LEASOWES AVENUE, GREEN LANE, COVENTRY, CV3 6BHImage by Andrew Moore
