Tiggarfolk & herrskap

The peaceful, mythical Lövdala - inspired by Selma Lagerlöf's own childhood home Mårbacka - is the setting where many of Selma Lagerlöf's stories unfold. In her works, Lövdala emerges as a centre of community, imagination, and moral values, where her gift for storytelling and her sense of the fairy-tale world take root.

In Tiggarfolk & Herrskap, Västanå Musik & Teater weaves together several narratives from Selma's works that revolve around Lövdala. Moral questions about human nature and how life should be lived are brought to the fore - and in true Lagerlöf spirit, the supernatural appears as an ingredient for those who act unjustly.

At the heart are the cavaliers of Ekeby: former heroes living a parasitic existence without status or possessions, yet simultaneously sought-after and gifted artists. We meet the violinist Liljecrona, torn between the adventure and passion of a free life on one hand and the home at Lövdala with its family duties on the other. When the poor seek help from the gentry, the question of goodness and generosity arises - what becomes of those who let stinginess govern their actions toward the dependent?

The old Colonel Beerencreutz learns he has one day left to live. What meaning will he give to that final day, and what truly matters?