A special screening of an award-winning documentary was shown to a packed
Worcester Cathedral last weekend, raising over £4,000 for its upkeep.
Life Over Death, which was produced by local video production agency Conteur, gave
viewers the first ever look at Worcester’s medieval Charnel House, an underground room
filled with hundreds of human remains. The film also celebrates the life of the Bishop of
Worcester’s late wife, Denise Inge who wrote a book on Charnel Houses and the
incredible effect that living over one had on her life in her final months.
The Charnel House, which is thought to be around 1,000 years old, has never been
documented photographically and has been somewhat of a local legend for many years.
The Interim Dean of the cathedral, Dr Stephen Edwards, said: “Life Over Death is a superb
film which combines award-winning photography with skilled direction to tell the story of
one of Worcester’s most fascinating spaces.
“Together with the inspiring stories told within the showing of this film, it was a unique
and memorable event. We are extremely thankful to those who supported it and raised
such a generous amount for the life and work of the cathedral.”
The screening, to more than 300 attendees, began with an introduction by the Conteur
team, followed by the viewing of the film. Guests were then treated to a powerful
musical performance by the talented duo Claire Horáček and David Hatcher from The
Linarol Consort of Renaissance Viols.
History lovers from all over the UK travelled to Worcester for the event, as well as
theologists and church leaders from several faiths who came together, not only to get a
first glimpse of the Charnel house but also to celebrate the life of Denise, who died 10
years ago.
The evening ended with a behind-the-scenes video showing how the film was made and
a Q&A session with the film crew and Bishop John, which generated a lot of interest and
lasted well over an hour.
Gillian Davies, Director of Life Over Death and Director at Conteur said: “The screening of
Life Over Death at the Cathedral exceeded all of our expectations as filmmakers.
“To be given the opportunity to show our film in such a poignant setting is something
we’ll remember for a very long time. The recognition that the film has already received
has been quite overwhelming and we’re so grateful to Bishop John for trusting us to tell
this incredible story.”
For more information about Conteur, please visit https://conteur.co.uk/
For more information about Worcester Cathedral, please visit
www.worcestercathedral.org.uk
Hundreds Gather at Cathedral for Award-Winning Worcester Charnel House Documentary Screening
