Taking a leaf from the ever popular York Mystery Plays, the Minster played host to Riding Lights touring company for their modern passion play, Inheritance.

Written by Bridget Foreman, Inheritance follows the teachings of Jesus Christ, from his healing of the lame and blind to his death and resurrection. Foreman creates a reworking of the Easter story, bringing a new light to the timeless story of forgiveness.

Instead of focussing on Jesus’ relationship with his disciples, Foreman creates a script in which the audience are introduced to the adulterous woman from John 8:7 (“He is who is without sin among you, may he be the first to cast the stone.”).

We see relatable perspectives of those whose actions are construed as sinful and repulsive, and the acceptance which saves their lives. Foreman’s script is incredibly genuine and feels like a refreshing look at the Biblical stories which are still relevant in our modern society. The ensemble cast worked well and portrayed incredibly sympathetic roles, with Kolade Agboke giving the standout performance.

Emma Leaman-Brown’s composition is beautiful, with three-part harmonies sending chills through the audience (unrelated to the cold nature of the cathedral). Paul Burbridge has clearly considered the piece very carefully, and the moments of reflection lend to a thoughtful and sincere piece of theatre.

The message of forgiveness and acceptance at the heart of Inheritance is compelling, whether you’re of a religious mindset or not, and it serves as a fine successor to the passion play tradition.