Louise Whitfield's contribution to the world-wide Carnegie legacy is little-known, and her story remains largely untold. However, Andrew Carnegie’s name is internationally known for his contributions to libraries, education, peace, sport and more.
Louise's own life documents changes in the development of America, friendship with a future US President, civil war, expectations of women.
Her meeting with Andrew, the boy who came from poverty to became the US Steel King changes both their lives. The rocky road of Louise's friendship, engagements and marriage to Andrew, his 'most trusted confidante', is one to marvel at.
This one-woman show, researched, written and performed by Irene Lofthouse shines a light on Louise’s pivotal role as a driving force behind Carnegie’s philanthropic vision, offering audiences a fresh and inspiring perspective on the woman behind the legacy.
The first-ever theatre show about Louise premiered at Andrew’s birthplace of Dunfermline was in front of some of their great-grandchildren.
'I laughed, I cried, I wanted to get up and applaud halfway through. What a fantastic performance.' Carnegie Library, Dunfermline
‘This is the first performance of Louise’s life that we know of. Thank you so much for it.’ Carnegie family members
Irene specialises in uncovering and animating hidden and overlooked stories, weaving the past into the present with vivid storytelling and historical insight and is presenting Meet Louise Whitfield as part of Clitheroe Library's celebration of the Carnegie legacy.
Irene's a writer of over thirty plays, two children’s story collections, a wide range of creative content for film, educational resources, and site-specific narratives. Her work spans multiple platforms including theatre, film, television, radio, podcasts, and video. She’s renowned for her captivating touring one-woman shows (Edinburgh Fringe, Art & Literature Festivals across UK) where she brings a multitude of characters to life.
See & listen to her storytelling:
Knowing Bradford, Historic England: short film
Hidden Bradford Bradford Beck: the river that burst into flames BBC Sounds
Hidden Bradford Sir Henry Irving's death & ghost on BBC Sounds
Hidden Bradford Bradford's last ravaging boar on BBC Sounds
