In a new partnership between St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral and the Traverse Theatre, and following an outdoor premiere in 2021 at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, The Covid Requiem, from playwright Jo Clifford and historian and activist Lesley Orr, that is a tribute to lives lost to the pandemic, has evolved for a fresh presentation.
Inspired by Clifford’s realisation of the scale of unresolved loss caused by the pandemic and the lasting impact of this singular grief on those still living, The Covid Requiem offers a chance for communal reflection on and remembrance of lives lost to a disease that is still with us.
Clifford said “So many people lost loved ones during the pandemic, and so many people are still doing so. It matters more than ever to create rituals that give voice to people’s grief and rage, and that create public spaces for collective mourning. It’s wonderful that St. Marys cathedral and the Traverse are joining forces to allow this to happen. The beauty of the cathedral, the beauty of the music, and the depth of shared emotion will make this a profound and moving experience.”
This new version of the production will include excerpts from one of the most loved choral works, Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, sung by the 30-member strong Choir of St Mary’s Cathedral and conducted by Director of the Music Duncan Ferguson. During the performance members of the audiences will be invited to share names of and stories about those whose lives have been lost to Covid.
As well as an act of remembrance, The Covid Requiem pays tribute to members of the NHS and keyworkers who exposed themselves to the virus in the service of others, remembers wrongs done behind the doors of power, and asks frank questions surrounding why this pandemic, has seen ‘the heaviest burdens loaded on to the backs of those who have the least.’
Executive Producer of the Traverse Theatre, Linda Crooks said “We are extremely proud to be working with our neighbour, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, for the very first time, on a piece which is sadly so relevant to many in Edinburgh and beyond, and we are honoured that Jo, Lesley and Marion have entrusted us with such a meaningful work. Whilst we may seem unusual partners on the surface, we have much in common, seeking to support and inspire our communities, and offer comfort and joy wherever they are needed. These performances are for those of any faith, or none, and we hope they give space for us to come together as we so need to at times such as these, to grieve, remember, console and hope …”
The Covid Requiem takes place on Thursday 10th – Friday 11th November at 7pm in
St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, 23 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh, EH12 5AW.
Ticket prices are:
Full Price £15
Under 30’s and Students £10
Other Concessions £5
For those under 25 or in receipt of income support benefits £1 tickets available
Socially distanced seating will be available in the venue for those who would prefer it.
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 