Hildegard (1098-1179) was a remarkable woman, a ‘first’ in many fields. At a time when few women wrote, she produced major works of theology, music and visionary writings. She used the curative powers of music and natural objects for healing. She is the first composer whose biography is known. Her story is an inspirational account of an irresistible spirit and vibrant intellect overcoming social, physical, cultural and gender barriers.


DVD 1
ORDO VIRTUTUM (The Ritual of the Virtues) – Hildegard's great ‘musical morality play’ on the journey of the soul, in an atmospheric dramatised film, performed by the dedicated ensemble Vox Animae. Directed by early music specialists Evelyn Tubb and Michael Fields. (70 mins)

A REAL MYSTIC - An interview and lecture with Professor Matthew Fox and Mary Grabowsky, experts on Hildegard's spiritual significance to the 21st century. (45 mins)


DVD 2
HILDEGARD – Dramatised BBC Omnibus biographical documentary, starring Patricia Routledge. (55 mins)

A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION - The Washington National Cathedral presents a documentary about the life and times of Hildegard. (50 mins)

ILLUMINATIONS - Art gallery of Hildegard's mystic visions, with comments by Professor Matthew Fox. (30 mins)

Works: Ordo Virtutum


PRESS REVIEWS


"Even with the music alone (which has been imaginatively recorded by Sequentia) this is a remarkable achievement, but to see it played out in glowing colours, imaginatively performed and beautifully sung, partly outside and partly inside, in splendidly chosen natural settings, adds an extra dimension to the drama.The accompanying second DVD includes a compulsive BBC 'Omnibus' dramatization of Hildegard's early life before she set up her own order; and no better choice for the role of Hildegard could have been found than Patricia Routledge.This is a film to watch more than once, so it makes an ideal counterpart to the music, which one can return to again and again.This DVD Double is a truly remarkable achievement, but it also surely points the way to the manner of biographical publishing in the future." (The Penguin Guide)
Awards Penguin Guide Rosette
Vox Animae; Evelyn Tubb & Michael Fields

Catalogue Number: OA0875D
Running Time: 250 minutes
Sound: Dolby Surround; Dolby Stereo
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 Anamorphic
Subtitles: EN, FR, DE, ES, NL
Label: Opus Arte