Project Description

We documented the staging and the production of Qui a peur de la Dame Blanche? (Who's Afraid of the White Lady?) directed by Robert Nortik, a concert by the Geneva Chamber Orchestra (OCG) at Château Rouelbeau in Meinier from September 17 to 21, 2019 with an exceptional sound and light show and a musical creation by Christophe Sturzenegger in collaboration with the choirs and the Orchestra of the C.O. Locomotion.

La Bâtie-Rouelbeau is a medieval stronghold in ruins, built in the 13th century in Meinier, near Geneva, by Humbert de Choulex. This site, recently renovated by the cantonal archaeological service and still considered isolated and mysterious, has inspired its share of legends and was the exceptional scene of five nightly performances.

It is said that a White Lady haunts it on full moon nights, bringing back to life the former inhabitants of the castle and locking away for eternity visitors who are too curious and too greedy who would like to seize the treasure hidden in the castle. Legend has it that “the White Lady” was the first wife of Humbert de Choulex, repudiated by her husband, who always hoped to see him return to her.

In order to highlight the richness of the local heritage and its artistic vivacity, four Geneva artists were selected to produce this piece: Christophe Sturzenegger for the composition, Guillaume Rihs for the libretto, stories and songs, Robert Nortik for staging, lights and video-mapping and Laurent Sandoz, narrator.