Moving Muses: Four Extraordinary Women

Moving Muses at Kirsten Kjærs Museum in Denmark.

On May 11, 2024, "Moving Muses: Four Extraordinary Women" premiered at the Kirsten Kjærs Museum in Frøstrup, Denmark. Marit Benthe Norheim's sculptures reflect the essence of defiance and resilience, mirroring the remarkable spirits of the women featured in Elizabeth Cruz Petersen's book. Alongside her, Sigrid Norheim Ørntoft channels the movement and expressions embodying the very essence of Margarita Zuazo, Bárbara Coronel, Fabian Laura, and María Álvarez - four women of Spain's Golden Age Theater. Elizabeth, Benthe, and Sigrid bring forth a powerful performance exhibition celebrating the unwavering strength of these extraordinary women.

Empowering the Past: Unveiling the Stories of 17th-Century Spanish Women

In Spain's Golden Age, a sisterhood of actresses and entrepreneurs emerged, defying old institutional norms. Their relevance transcends time and geography, resonating even in our modern era. These women seized a rare moment in history when they could claim their place in a male-dominated world.

Their stories reveal both personal and professional challenges. These remarkable women navigated acting careers, built businesses, and faced adversity head-on, leaving a lasting impact on society. Yet, their narratives also delve into darker realms—violent marriages, imprisonment, and murder charges. By celebrating their resilience and tenacity, we illuminate taboo topics that demand our attention and inspire change.

As we honor female power, we lay the groundwork for future generations. Perhaps, through their stories, more women will discover their inner strength. However, as domestic violence persists, shelters witness a steady influx of residents seeking refuge. We must continue to shed light on these issues, ensuring that the legacy of these courageous women inspires change and empowerment for all.

This unique and captivating installation performance piece is now available for touring.   

Film clip of Moving Muses project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhEVTXUS1eg.

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Carmen Duarte’s “The Ship that Took Us to War: Fragments of a Novel in Progress.” Translated by Elizabeth Cruz Petersen (2021)