Hilma librettist Kate Scelsa reveals the backstory of this striking new opera

The BSR Podcast, season 8, episode 8: Hilma at the Wilma

Darnelle Radford
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In
1 minute read
In a large circular onstage frame with steps at the center, golden light covers 13 musicians and dancing ensemble members.
The orchestra and ensemble members of the Wilma's 'Hilma'. (Photo by Johanna Austin.)

In a co-production with New York-based theater company New Georges, the Wilma presents the world premiere of Hilma, a contemporary opera about the mystical, little-known Swedish painter Hilma af Klint. She died in 1944, decreeing that no-one should see her artwork until 20 years after her death.

Darnelle Radford sits down with Hilma librettist Kate Scelsa to find out how she discovered Hilma af Klint, what was so compelling about her, and how this show came to premiere at the Wilma thanks to co-artistic director Morgan Green, who specializes in new works.

Don't miss the review by theater critic Cameron Kelsall. This show runs through June 23 and will be available to stream ($29) from June 24-July 21, 2024.

Listen above, visit the BSR Podcast episode page, or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

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