Wanted - cast and crew for Magical Mysteries
Added: 23/09/2009
Amateur thespians, prop builders, singers and dancers are being sought by organisers to take part in the Durham Mysteries, a hotly anticipated 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 the city of Durham 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.
The Durham Mysteries will see contemporary performances of a major new revival of a traditional mystery play cycle, exclusively written by 10 writers, 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.
People interested in getting involved can come along to one of three public meetings taking place across County Durham:
29 September , 6.00pm, Durham Gala Theatre
1 October, 6.00pm, Bishop Auckland Town Hall
5 October, 8.00pm, Seaham Leisure Centre
The main rehearsal period for the Durham Mysteries will begin from February 2010.
In medieval England the plays would have been performed by members of local guilds, and the mystery plays have always been part of a community drama tradition.
Taking this tradition as its starting point the Durham Mysteries 2010 will give a contemporary twist to the traditional stories and will look to include digital media, urban arts and modern music as well as the more conventional theatrical approach.
Simon Stallworthy, Creative Director for the plays says “Each play will be a distinctive unit, with it own writer, director and performing group. The performers may be part of an existing group, such as a school or amateur dramatic company, or may be specifically put together from interested individuals.
There are opportunities for actors, dancers, singers and musicians as each play is very different and has different requirements. For example the Fall of Man is a community opera, and The Nativity is a dance piece.”
Kate James, Creative Programmer for Durham’s City of Culture bid and project initiator said, “This is an amazing opportunity for anyone interested in the performing arts to get involved in a unique project. We’re looking for people with enthusiasm and passion to make the Durham Mysteries a spectacular event for participants and audiences.”
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 and for those who are keen to get involved but are unable to attend one of the meetings email mysteries@galadurham.co.uk for more info. 
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