2020 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of the world’s best-known nurse, Florence Nightingale. Songwriter and performer, Louise Jordan, has produced a one-woman show which shines a light on Florence Nightingale’s pioneering work as a statistician and reformer. Arts Alive are sharing a recording of an extract from the show, as part of their ‘at home’ programme of events during lockdown. They have also organised for Louise to take part in a live conversation after the show.
Louise Jordan has previously produced shows focussing on women’s history, from women working in the First World War to a lessen known suffragette. She says that Florence’s anniversary seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore her life and some of the lesser-known aspects of her story. She comments, “What children learn about Florence in school is limited and I wanted to challenge that – she is more than just the ‘Lady with the Lamp’. Florence was a pioneering statistician, social reformer and political influencer, and she is a strong role model for inspiring young people in to STEM roles. For the show I have adapted my format to be more conceptual, focussing on different themes, whilst still using my storytelling and songs to reveal some more concealed aspects of Florence’s story.”
The show received funding from Arts Council England and was produced to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Florence’s birth.
Cerin Mills from Arts Alive comments, “At a time when we appreciate and want to thank our NHS staff like never before, it feels like a fitting moment to pay tribute to Florence’s story and challenge how it has been told so far. We are thrilled to have the supremely talented Louise Jordan and an extract from her show ‘Florence’ included in our ArtsAlive@Home programme.”
Arts Alive are continuing to provide cultural experiences to communities in Shropshire and Herefordshire whilst performance spaces remain closed. Arts Alive are asking audiences to enjoy the show from home, by collectively watching it online on Thursday 16th July at 2:30pm. After the show the audience can log in to a post show live chat with Louise Jordan.
The performance is suitable for ages 14 and over. To watch the show visit www.artsalive.co.uk, select the Florence event and follow the link to the pre-recorded show. Email cerin@artsalive.co.uk to receive a private link to the live conversation after the performance at 3:30pm.
