Fire in the Temple

Fire in the Temple

  • Ages 14+

A play about the last years of Rudolf Steiner's life, as he confronts mysterious demons in 1923 Europe, as the Nazi party is emerging.

By Anthroposophy in Edinburgh

Date and time

Location

Edinburgh Steiner School

60 Spylaw Road Edinburgh EH10 5BR United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event.

Performers

About this event

  • Event lasts 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Ages 14+
  • Free venue parking

Fire in the Temple

Fire in the Temple

One of the most influential spiritual teachers of the 20th century, joins with the Archangel Michaél to confront mysterious demons in 1923 Europe, as the Nazi party is beginning to emerge.

“I want to kindle every human being to become a flame, shining its fiery essence from within.”

Crafted from actual events and discourse, Fire in the Temple, dramatizes Rudolf Steiner’s final months and brings to the stage the people around him, including two extraordinary women, Marie Steiner von Sivers and Dr. Ita Wegman, both of whom stood by him until the very day of his death – and beyond. Their personal conflicts, hopes and sorrows are sensitively portrayed in this rigorously researched drama.

Laurie Portocarrero and Glen Williamson, with eurythmists Sea-Anna Vasilas and Zachary Dolphin, developed this play – through numerous revisions and staged readings – for several years before director John McManus staged a full-cast professional production in September, 2023, in Copake and Spring Valley, NY, and in Kimberton Hills, PA. The director and playwright tightened the script to a dynamic ensemble performance. Previous readings of the script in Copake, NY; Beaver Run, PA; Los Angeles; Santa Cruz; Sacramento; Boulder and Denver; Hudson, NY; Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont had drawn profound and encouraging responses and anticipation of the full production.

Audience responses to Fire in the Temple readings

“—meticulously researched—artistically crafted—stunningly performed. . . a powerful feeling for the weaving of destiny.”– Gloria Kemp, Waldorf-education consultant

“Truly amazing. I sat mesmerized. . . [it] was so full and the images captivating. I am still feeling the effects from it. . . beautiful experience. It will be with me for some time!!!”

Diane Prusha, Actress,Shakespeare & Company, Lenox, MA

“It was deeply moving…wonderfully written…and the same questions live today… With tears I’m asking: Will we awake?”

Irena Valujeva, Camphill USA

“True and compassionate writing.”

“I knew all of this, but this play brings it all together in a vivid and moving story.”

“The message, that Christ’s light combats the forces of darkness, comes through loud and clear.”

“Now I feel I’ve really met Rudolf Steiner.”

“Truly redemptive.”

“This needs to be seen.”

and from our team . . .

“It is an extraordinary play that has been enthusiastically received as an epic of superb storytelling during its numerous two- and four-person play-reading performances over the past three years. Now, our task is to turn this successful play-reading epic into a dramatic piece of theater with a full ensemble cast.”– John McManus, Director

“I believe that artistic activity, through this play, can greatly enhance our experience of these momentous historical events and relationships.”– Barbara Renold, Director and Producerof Rudolf Steiner’s Mystery Dramas

Frequently asked questions

Is this a fully stage performance of Fire in the Temple?

No, this is a staged reading of the play by two performers who were intimately involved in writing it and performing it in 2023.

Why is there an age restriction?

The theme of the play suggests audience members should be at least 14 years of age. Younger people are welcome provided they are accompanied by an adult.

What is the recommended donation?

We recommend a donation of £15 per ticket. The total cost of this event is estimated to be around £1300. This includes the cost of travel, B&B, meals. a donation to the venue, printing of programmes. To achieve this we need 86 donations of £15. So please donate generously for this unique event!

Are there any discounts?

If you cannot afford the full ticket price, then please select an amount that you can afford.

I would like to support this event. How can I do that?

Please pay more than the suggested ticket price. That way we can support people who cannot afford the full price and also make it more likely that we break even.

Will there be an interval?

Yes there is a 30-min interval.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes the venue is fully wheelchair accessible, there's a low threshold getting into the hall. There's an accessible toilet across from the hall.

Can I pay a different way?

Please book and pay in advance if at all possible! But yes, cash or card at the door. Bank transfer to Anthroposophy in Edinburgh, Account number 00128216, Sort code 80-02-24 Email ioberski@gmail.com to reserve your ticket and indicate you've paid by bank transfer.

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Nov 9 · 14:00 GMT