Illuminate the Darkness

I went to Illuminate The Darkness on Friday. It was really thought-provoking and engaging - as well as surprising at times and emotional. The contrast between the live story-telling about women from the past, using one significant prop for each woman, and the showing of filmed interviews telling stories of present day women was very strong and impacting. I love that untold stories of amazing, brave, strong, innovative women, both from the past and the present day, are surfacing all across the globe right now, almost as if a vast scattering of dormant seeds were germinating! I will remember these women.

I'm an Edinburgh based author and my debut historical novel, based on a true story, is called 'The Real Mackay'.

Well worth seeing. Some slow transitions need smoothing out, but overall I loved the format. Bea Conner-Pohl introduces, then takes on the character of, historical women of colour to talk about their struggles and triumphs. Interspersed among the historical figures are video interviews of modern day women of colour sharing their stories. Great stories, much to think about, interesting and entertaining. Audience participation consists of guessing what the women did next in a situation they had talked about. I found myself looking at the options and wanting to choose based on what I hoped they did rather than what I thought they did. That allowed for some interesting introspection and great discussion. What would I have done? I love a show where I learn something and this was one such show. For anybody interested in DEI or social justice, it is a must see. Even if those are not your passions, it is not time you'll want back. Definitely two thumbs up! Dare I add a third thumbs up? I only have two hands, but why not?