Interest in the St Just Ordinalia, a set of medieval Cornish plays, is being revitalised through a series of workshops. These plays are an integral part of Cornish cultural identity.
The full cycle of Ordinalia has rarely been performed in modern times, but a recent initiative aims to change that. By 2026, organisers hope to stage the trilogy in one of its original historical settings.
Origins and Significance of the Ordinalia
The St Just Ordinalia is a trilogy of medieval plays composed in the 14th century. These plays are among the earliest written examples of the Cornish language. They were originally recorded by monks in Penryn and performed by communities throughout Cornwall, playing a vital role in preserving Cornish culture and language.
The three manuscripts that constitute the Ordinalia – ‘The Creation of the World,’ ‘The Passion of Christ,’ and ‘The Resurrection of our Lord’ – are currently preserved in the Bodleian Library and the National Library of Wales. These works are not merely religious; they encompass human stories that resonate universally.
Revival of the Plays
The Ordinalia was last fully staged in 2021 in St Just. This rare modern performance attracted nearly 6,000 spectators over a week. The staging was in English with segments in Cornish, reflecting both the linguistic heritage and the adaptability of these medieval works.
The amphitheatre in St Just, one of only two surviving ‘Plen an Gwari’ in Cornwall, served as the setting for this performance. The outdoor venue added to the authenticity and atmosphere, engaging audiences deeply in the historical context.
Upcoming Workshops
Exciting plans are underway to stage the entire Ordinalia cycle once again in 2026. This initiative includes workshops in St Just aimed at introducing potential performers to speaking and singing in Cornish.
The workshops, funded by the local council, have seen high demand, quickly reaching full capacity. Participants are given a unique opportunity to engage with Cornish culture and potentially become part of the ambitious future production. The organisers hope to continue this practice every five years, keeping the tradition alive.
Mary Ann Bloomfield, the Chair of the St Just and District Trust Charitable Interest Organisation, emphasised the importance of these workshops: ‘These works are so important. Quite a lot of people don’t know about the Ordinalia and don’t even know the St Just site is there.’ Her remarks highlight the need for wider awareness and participation in Cornish cultural preservation.
Community and Cultural Impact
The Ordinalia plays are not just historical artefacts; they are a living part of Cornish identity. By staging these medieval dramas, communities in Cornwall are not only preserving their past but also creating a dynamic cultural present.
The involvement of local people in performing these plays ensures that the tradition is kept current and relevant. ‘It’s epic theatre and it’s about as Cornish as you can get,’ Mrs Bloomfield stated, underscoring the deep connection between the plays and local identity.
Historical Venues
The significance of the venue for the Ordinalia cannot be overstated. The St Just amphitheatre, or ‘playing place,’ is integral to the authenticity of the performances, offering a tangible link to Cornwall’s medieval past.
Using such a historically rich location helps transport audiences back in time, enriching their experience of the plays. The amphitheatre is a rare example of medieval performance spaces that still exist today, making it an invaluable cultural resource.
Plans to utilise the St Just site for future performances demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the historical integrity of the Ordinalia while making it accessible to contemporary audiences.
The Future of the Ordinalia
The aspiration to perform the full cycle every five years is a testament to the enduring significance of these medieval plays. It represents a concerted effort to keep the Cornish language and culture vibrant.
With increasing awareness and interest generated by the workshops, the organisers are optimistic about the future. They believe that continued community engagement will secure the Ordinalia’s place in Cornwall’s cultural landscape.
Incorporating modern elements into future performances, while staying true to the original texts, could attract a broader audience and ensure the plays remain relevant.
Public Engagement and Support
Public interest in the Ordinalia has been sparked by recent workshops. These events have shown that there is both enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about Cornish heritage.
Support from local councils and cultural organisations has been crucial in funding these initiatives. Their backing ensures that the Ordinalia can be experienced by new generations, perpetuating the cycle of cultural preservation and renewal.
The revived interest in the Ordinalia demonstrates the enduring appeal of Cornwall’s medieval heritage. Workshops and planned performances highlight the significant role of local culture.
Reviving these plays every five years keeps Cornish traditions alive, ensuring they are passed down and appreciated by future generations.
