A Truly North Eastern Passion

Audiences in Durham can expect to experience a PASSION with a north eastern twist as part of an exciting new production set to take place as part of the Durham Mysteries in May.

Tim Harrison’s ‘The Crucifixion’ is one of ten specially commissioned plays which will make up an exciting contemporary revival of a traditional mystery play cycle, exclusively devised for Durham by some of the best creative practitioners working in the UK today.

With music and words by Durham musician Tim Harrison, direction from Em Whitfield and choreography from Helen Whitfield, The Crucifixion will be the ninth play in the 2010 Durham Mysteries cycle, dramatically depicting the spectacle of the trial, suffering and death of Jesus Christ from the perspective of a north east lad drafted into the Roman Army.

Tim said: “There are records that trade links between the north east of England and Rome were established in the time of Christ. The story runs from the perspective of the character of the young Geordie soldier drafted into the Roman Army who is reporting back to his superiors about his own involvement in Christ’s passion, and how this profoundly changes his life.
 

“The text is minimal, weaving together scripture and original material, whist the story is presented through dance, mime and music. The music, which is inspired by contemporary jazz and classical music, is based on an ancient Good Friday plainsong hymn, "Crux Fidelis". In a similar way, the dance brings together elements of contemporary and classical styles.”

The play is to be acted by some of Durham’s most talented young performers, aged between 15- 20, including 16 year old Alex Frost - Younger in the role of Jesus, but Tim says not to be fooled by the cast, as this production is anything but child’s play.
 

Tickets
Gala Theatre performance only: £5 (£3 conc)
Durham Cathedral performance only: £5 (£3 conc)
The Sands performances only: £15 (£10 conc)
ALL PLAYS PACKAGE: £20 (£15 conc)

For more information on the full 2010 mystery play cycle, please visit www.durhammysteries.co.uk or call Durham Gala Theatre Box Office on 0191 3324041