Mysteries workshop dates announced

Durham Mysteries 2010 - a chance to take part in one of the major theatrical events of the decade! Dates for the first drama workshops for the hotly anticipated Durham Mysteries have been announced, giving people across the region the opportunity to get involved.

Budding thespians, prop builders, singer and dancers will get the chance to take a leading role in the major cultural event taking place in the North East in May 2010. The event promises an exciting spectacle which will take place over three nights across Durham City and offers a ‘once in a life time’ experience for participants to work with some of the most talented writers and composers working in the UK today.

Workshops include:

- Esh and Waterhouse Village Workshop (residents of Waterhouses and Esh only, mature group 18+)

Friday December 4, 6pm to 9pm at Waterhouses Village Hall, Durham

- Break dance and rap workshop (youth - adult 13+)

Saturday December 5 1.00pm – 4.00pm, Durham Gala Theatre

- Dramatic workshop (mature group 18+)

Sunday December 6  2.00pm – 5pm, Durham Gala Theatre

Suitable for all levels of performers, the workshops will welcome novice performers, as well as people who haven’t performed in a long time.

Dates for youth workshops for Durham Mysteries are expected to be announced before Christmas.

The Durham Mysteries will see contemporary performances of a major new revival of a traditional mystery play cycle, exclusively devised by writers and creative practitioners, including David Almond and Ian McMillan. The 10 stories being giving a fresh and modern makeover include Noah and the Flood, Cain & Abel, The Nativity and the Fall of Lucifer. Now organisers are seeking people from across the county keen to take part in these unique and exciting performances.

Gala Director Simon Stallworthy said “We want anyone who wants to have a performing role in the Durham Mysteries to be able to, and these workshops are a fun and gentle way for people to dip their toe in the water. In the new year the group will begin meeting once a week and will be one of the ten groups performing a modern mystery play in May 2010.”

Kate James, Creative Programmer for Durham’s City of Culture bid said “Durham Mysteries 2010 is an integral element of the cultural programme being put forwards as part of the bid. It epitomises the three core strands: Festival Durham, Creative Durham and Cultural City, Cultural County. It will encourage wide-spread participation in a major high-profile cultural event, stimulate and expand the cultural community within Durham and will firmly cement Durham as a cultural destination. This is the chance for everyone to be part of the bid.”

The Durham Mysteries form part of North East England’s world-class programme of festivals and events developed by culture10. Stella Hall, Creative Director of culture10 said: “Participation and community involvement is key to the success of this event and we are calling on people from all backgrounds and all cultures to get involved. Durham is known for its rich heritage and warm, friendly people. Durham Mysteries will give local people the opportunity to showcase their talents to a national audience. With Durham currently bidding to be named City of Culture, I can think of no better time for people to get out and support this iconic event.”

For more information on The Durham Mysteries or to get involved, please register by emailing mysteries@galadurham.co.uk or visit www.galadurham.co.uk