About the project

Bernadetje
Alain Platel / Arne Sierens
10 -12 October 1997
The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm, London NW1

Developed over three years - the first theatrical performance at London's arts venue The Roundhouse in 15 years - Bernadetje was a visceral 75 minutes on a dodgem track, performed by 11 people (mostly teenagers), 5 bumper cars and a soundtrack of Bach, Prince and disco-kitsch mixed live on stage.

Both director and writer Arne Sierens and choreographer Alain Platel grew up near the village Oostaker in Ghent; here a fairground sits next to a replication of the grotto at Lourdes where 14-year old Bernadette saw visions of the Virgin Mary. They brought this juxtaposition and its questions and clashes to the stage...

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