York Cycle of Mystery Plays returns to the Museum Gardens (From York Press)

York Cycle of Mystery Plays returns to the Museum Gardens

7:50am Saturday 21st January 2012 in York 800 news

One of the undoubted highlights of 2012 in York will be the return of the medieval cycle of York Mystery Plays to the Museum Gardens for the first time since 1988.

Performed by the people of York across the centuries, the Plays are a world-famous part of the city’s cultural heritage. From Creation to the Last Judgement, the Plays form one of the greatest stories ever told.

In August this year, the story of God, of man and woman and of the cosmic struggle between good and evil will be presented on an epic scale against the stunning backdrop of St Mary’s Abbey.

A 1400 covered seat theatre will be built within the ancient Abbey walls. Reflecting the Plays’ role in the excitement of York 800, there’ll be a festival atmosphere in the Museum Gardens and across the city, with fringe events and a celebration of the best of Yorkshire food and drink.

The Plays will be presented by York Theatre Royal, Riding Lights Theatre Company and York Museums Trust with support from City of York Council. The adaptation is by York writer Mike Kenny, who also adapted ‘The Railway Children’ for the award-winning production by the Theatre Royal and the National Railway Museum.

Over 1000 local people will join professional artists and technicians in the production.

The Plays run from 2nd – 27th August, and you can get ticket details, and book online, at www.yorkmysteryplays2012.com