Category: Theatre

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Roll up, roll up, here come York Mystery Plays on waggons on June 28 and July 5

York Mystery Plays: Reconnecting modern York with medieval drama

THE four-yearly staging of the York Mystery Plays on pageant waggons takes place at four locations across the city on Sunday and July 5 from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Produced by York Festival Trust, the 2026 production once again will bring medieval drama into the streets and historic spaces of the city, reconnecting modern York with a cycle of plays first performed by its medieval guilds.

Free viewing can be enjoyed at the Minster Refectory Gardens, Deansgate, from 10.30am, King’s Square, from 11.10am, and St Sampson’s Square, from 11.50am. Ticketed seats are available for Dean’s Park from 12.30pm.

Each Sunday, ten core plays will be complemented by further extracts to tell the story from The War In Heaven to Doomsday. For full details, go to: yorkmysteryplays.co.uk.

Special midsummer performances of five of this summer’s plays will be presented in Sunset In The Shambles Market on June 30 and July 1, introduced by the York Waits musicians before Pageant Master Dr Alan Heaven guides the audience through each play, from the Creation sequence to the End of Days in the interactive show Doomsday. These shows begin at 7.45pm and end as the dusk is deepening before 10pm. For tickets, go to: ticketsource.com/york-festival-trust.

Alan brings considerable experience to his role. “I staged my first Mystery Plays in 1989 and my first in this [pageant waggon] festival in 2006 with the Potters’ Pageant,” he says.

“After that, I adapted all 48 into a two-hour production, then was asked by the Merchant Adventurers in 2010 to bring forth their play Doomsday. This summer will be the fifth time I’ve ‘ended the world’ for them, each time building the play afresh. It takes nine months to develop each one.” 

Alan’s vision as Pageant Master has been two-fold. “First, to help groups deliver exciting street theatre through the choice of plays and through having support materials available,” he says.

“Second, to lift the event, making it bigger and more inclusive; returning to the keyword ‘festival’ by extending the period of engagement from two days to two weeks and in some cases two months,  and by expanding the social media presence.

“In addition, there is a legacy programme of audio recordings and podcasts, plus much closer links with the York Mystery Plays Supporters’ Trust and their ongoing events. Overall I want to increase the range of opportunities for local people and visitors to engage with the plays.”

The cornerstone of presenting the York Mystery Plays in 2026 on the streets is the people, says Alan. “This is a massive community event, which exists because of the passion and commitment of the groups, directors, designers, musicians and the wonderful volunteers,” he reasons. “From the very start of the process nearly two years ago, I have been deeply touched by the warmth and support received for the new-look event.” 

Dr Alan Heaven: Pageant Master for 2026 York Mystery Plays

Explaining how this summer’s plays were chosen from the 48 that make up the York Cycle of Mystery Plays, Alan says: “The plays selected fall into three groups. First, the ones that are connected to specially designed waggons. These are The Creation – which has the fantastic pop-up Victorian-style waggon by the Guild of Building – and the Butchers’ iconic Crucifixion waggon.

“Second are the plays that are integral to the Christian story arc. These are the Fall of Adam and Eve, Resurrection and the end play, Doomsday, and the multi-faith spectacle of The Deluge.

“That makes six plays. Last time there were eight. The final group contains The Creation of Adam and Eve, The Journey to Calvary, The Shepherds, The Massacre of the Innocents and the remaining section of The Coronation of Mary, which makes 11 plays, all selected because of the opportunity for visual emphasis that they bring.”

Among the new participants will be Pip Cook, directing The Shepherds, Lions and Dragons Theatre Co, staging The Resurrection, and DSpace Ukrainian Theatre, founded in York by director and actress Dara Klymenko, who will perform The Massacre of the Innocents. 

Asked how he chose a theme for the sunset midweek performances, Alan says: “The only theme there need ever be is the York Mystery Plays. There’s also the practical reality of which groups are willing to do it.”

The Mystery Plays will be complemented by the York Mystery Plays Fringe. “Everything in the Fringe is a highlight,” says Alan. “Everyone connected has worked very hard and very creatively to enable more people to find their best way of connecting with the plays.

“Key events running now are The Deluge art exhibition of finalists from the national competition, curated by Megan kathryn Heywood, with many works for sale, at Bedern Hall, in Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, until July 3, and Women of the Mystery Plays, an exhibition at the Bar Convent Living Heritage  Centre, highlighting the contributions of women past and present, curated by Diane Heaven. 

“The York Mystery Plays Sound and Memory exhibition, using images from the Mystery Plays archive, is on show at Holy Trinity, Micklegate, until August 29, curated by Molly Jervis, while the York Mystery Plays shop is running in High Petergate.”

Finally, Alan, why should someone see the Mystery Plays if they have never done so before? “You should attend because this is a world-famous celebration of local heritage in one of the world’s leading tourist destinations: the most beautiful city in England.

“It is unique and only appears every four years; its connections with the city give it roots and authenticity. It might be a medieval Christian story but it is played by and watched by people of all faiths and none.” 

The York Mystery Plays, streets of York, June 28 and July 5, 10.30am to 4.50pm; Sunset In The Shambles Market, June 30 and July 1, 7.45pm.  

The Plays on June 28 and July 5

The Fall of Adam and Eve: The Lords of Misrule’s play

The War In Heaven: Brought forth by Laura-Elizabeth Rice and HIDden Theatre with the cast of volunteers, all working with and on behalf of Gild of Freemen. To find out more about the play, the guild and the stagecraft, visit: https://www.yorkmysteryplays.co.uk/introducing-war-heaven/.

The Creation: Brought forth by York Guild of Building, directed by Janice Barnes-Newton.

The Fall of Adam and Eve: Brought forth by The Lords of Misrule for the Company of Merchant Taylors, directed by Thomasina Cass.

Noah and the Flood: Brought forth by St. Luke’s Church, directed by Mike Tyler and Lynn Comer.

The Shepherds: Directed by Pip Cook with cast of Waifs and Strays for the Company of Cordwainers.

The Massacre of the Innocents: Brought forth by DSpace Ukrainian Theatre Company for the Guild of Scriveners.

The Crucifixion: Brought forth by York Settlement Community Players on behalf of the Company of Butchers, directed by Maurice Crichton.

The Journey to Calvary: Brought forth by York Mystery Plays Supporters’ Trust, directed by Paul Toy.

The Resurrection: The Quem Quaeritis: Brought forth by Lions & Dragons Theatre Co.

The Coronation of Mary: A fragment

Doomsday: Brought forth by Ravens Morris and Haigha for the Company of Merchant Adventurers, directed by Pageant Master Dr Alan Heaven. 

Doomsday: Performed by Ravens Morris and Haigha

York Mystery Plays 2026 Festival

Voices of the Plays: A Celebration of York Mystery Plays in Poetry and Prose. Merchant Taylors Hall, June 25, 6.30pm for 7pm start

WRITERS of all ages have responded to the themes, stories and characters of the York Mystery Plays, submitting nearly 50 original poems and prose pieces for inclusion in a new anthology. This event brings together those voices for an evening of readings, reflection and celebration in the Merchant Taylors’ Hall.

Young writers will open the evening, sharing their work with the audience after an optional pre-event performance workshop. Shortlisted adult writers will then present their selected pieces, showcasing a rich variety of responses to one of York’s most treasured cultural traditions.

The evening will celebrate the forthcoming publication of the anthology, featuring all shortlisted and winning entries, to be released later this summer. Whether you are a lover of literature, a supporter of the York Mystery Plays, or curious to hear new writing inspired by ancient stories, this promises to be an uplifting event.  Bookings: https://www.ticketsource.com/booking/select/gmxmmrejjann.

Expert Talks

JOIN leading historians, artists and practitioners as they explore the York Mystery Plays from new angles. These engaging talks offer insight, context and lively discussion. Delivered for York Festival Trust by Paul Toy, Dr Alan Heaven & Roger Lee and Maurice Crichton.

 Friday, June 26, 2.30pm, Holy Trinity, Goodramgate, Music of The Mysteries: How music has always been central to the plays, from original performance traditions to modern interpretation. Talk by Paul Toy, Pageant Master 2010, musician, dramatist and theatre director.

Monday, June 29, 2pm, Holy Trinity Micklegate, Bring the Plays to Life: How do you bring one of York’s oldest and most cherished traditions to life for a modern audience? Join Pageant Master 2026 Dr Alan Heaven and York Festival Trust chair and producer Roger Lee for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at York Mystery Plays 2026.

Friday, July 3, 2pm, Holy Trinity Micklegate, Being Noah. Actor and director Maurice Crichton givers an illustrated talk on the Noah Plays and their presentation. Bookings: https://www.ticketsource.com/york-festival-trust.

Podcasts:  Voices of the York Mystery Plays, streaming online

LISTEN in as stories unfold beyond the stage. A series of podcasts brings together voices from the production, the city and beyond, offering reflection, insight and behind-the-scenes perspectives. You can listen online on Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/2Aiin7sBQ6JPjErSoC9ezD and Soundcloud at https://soundcloud.com/yorkmysteryplays.

Audio Plays

EXPERIENCE the drama through sound alone. These specially created audio plays retell the plays in full, inviting you to engage your imagination wherever you are. York Festival Trust has begun the task of recording all 48 original plays over the next three years.  If you would like to take part, get in touch.  You can listen via Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/2Aiin7sBQ6JPjErSoC9ezD and Souncloud at https://soundcloud.com/yorkmysteryplays.

Film

UNIVERSITY of York students have created a short film responding to the Noah plays. Watch for our launch on YouTube and in person. Look out for the launch on YouTube.

Sound and Memory in the York Mystery Plays: Free archive exhibition, Holy Trinity Church, Micklegate, until August 29

USING archive materials from the National Centre for Early Music, curator Molly Jervis invites you to respond to an immersive exhibition exploring how sound and music evoke memory within the York Mystery Plays, past and present.  Come along to share your memories.  Holy Trinity is also  the starting point for the Original Stations Trail and only a short walk from the Women in the Mysteries exhibition at Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre.

Riding Lights Theatre in Mistero Buffo, Friargate Theatre, Lower Friargate, York, June 27 and 28, July 1 to 4 at 7.30pm plus 2.30pm matinees on July 3 and 4

TWO wild strangers roll into York for the 2026 York Mystery Plays Fringe to tell tales destined to turn the city upside down. Combining ferocious wit and fearless physical storytelling, Paul Birch’s two-hander production for York’s Riding Lights Theatre Company tears into faith, power, profit and hypocrisy by turning ancient Bible stories into urgent, humorous modern theatre with a clear spiritual heart.

Written by Nobel prize-winning playwright Dario Fo, translated by Ed Emery and performed by Yorkshire actors Thomas Frere and Cathy Sara, this 1969 take on the Mystery Plays will appeal to Fringe theatregoers with a taste for sharp, subversive and unapologetic comedy with bite. A post-show discussion with the creative team will follow the July 2 performance. Box office: www.ridinglights.org.

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What’s On in Ryedale, York and beyond. Hutch’s List No. 26, from Gazette & Herald

Dan Wood, left, Stephen Wright, Lotty Farmer, Rosa Burns, Hannah Shaw and James Dickinson in York Light Opera Company’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

A SNAPPY crocodile and a Man-Wulf, a spelling bee musical and the York Mystery Plays on wagon wheels keep Charles Hutchinson’s arty eye on the ball and off the football.

Musical of the week: York Light Opera Company in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, today to Saturday & June 30 to July 4, 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm Saturday matinees and 2pm Sunday matinee (28/6/2026)

NEIL Wood directs York Light in Rebecca Feldman, William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin’s musical account of six ‘mid-pubescents’ battling for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing stories from their home life, the tweens spell their way through a series of words hoping to never hear the bell that signals a mistake.

Cue a heart-warming message that highlights themes of friendship, identity and perseverance, all while celebrating the awkwardness and excitement of growing up. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Jordan Eskeisa, left, Marienella Phillips, Chelsea Da Silva (The Enormous Crocodile, front), Precious Abimbola and Ciara Hudson in Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical. Picture: Danny Kaan

Mischievous adaptation of the week: Roald Dahl Story Company in Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical, York Theatre Royal, tomorrow to Sunday, 10.30am and 1.30pm

ROALD Dahl’s Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees. Only fellow jungle creatures can foil his “secret plans and clever tricks”, but they need courage aplenty to stop this greedy, grumptious, horrid brute.

Equipped with Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab’s tunes, Suhayla El-Bushra’s rib-tickling book and lyrics and Tom Brady’s additional music and lyrics, the dastardly family adventure has been developed and directed by Emily Lim, working in tandem with co-director and puppetry designer Toby Olié. Chelsea Da Silva, Precious Abimbola, Jordan Eskeisa, Ciara Hudson, Marienella Phillips and actor-musician René Francalanza star.Age guidance: Three plus. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Stewart Lee’s illustration for Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf, on tour for three nights at Grand Opera House, York

Comedy gigs of the week: Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf, Grand Opera House, York, tomorrow to Saturday, 7.30pm

AFTER a five-night Theatre Royal run in the fledgling days of Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf in January 2025, the contrarian comedian returns to York for three more nights of testing whether the beast inside us all can be silenced with the silver bullet of Lee’s scalpel-sharp stand-up?

Lee will play the same material three ways: first up, telling liberal jokes in a liberal way, then, after a screaming transformation into the Man-Wulf, reactionary jokes in a reactionary way post-interval and, finally, wolf’s head removed, reactionary jokes in a liberal, left-leaning way. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

The Moorlands Blues Band: Playing at Milton Rooms, Malton

Blues gig of the week: Ryedale Blues Club presents The Moorlands Blues Band, Milton Rooms, Malton, tomorrow, 8pm

IN The Moorlands Blues Band, the powerhouse blues ensemble founded by seasoned musicians Giuseppe Vitale and Rod Mackay is joined by Owen Houlston on voice and guitar. In high-energy performances of soulful depth, they play everything from the rawness of Old Delta Blues to the swing of Jump Blues and the gritty soul of Chicago Blues. Box office:  01653 696240  or themiltonrooms.com.

Karl Mullen: Everything from Chopin to Oasis, via Led Zeppelin and Les Dawson, at The Old Paint Shop

Cabaret gig of the week: The Old Paint Shop presents Karl Mullen, York Theatre Royal Studio, Friday, 8pm

AFTER two Old Paint Shop gigs last year, Karl Mullen, upright-piano busker, Phoenix Inn fixture and Leeds Piano Competition Pub Piano Champion, completes his hat-trick, serving up his energetic take on everything from Chopin to Oasis, via Led Zeppelin and Les Dawson, packed with outrageous and heartfelt stories from decades of gigging. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Coastal gig of the week: Pete Tong, Ibiza Classics, TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Friday, gates open at 6pm

FROM the sun-soaked shores of Ibiza to the world’s biggest stages, Pete Tong has redefined live dance music over more than 30 years of pushing boundaries and supporting new talent.

After celebrating the tenth anniversary of Ibiza Classics with four sold-out nights at the Royal Albert Hall, he heads to the Yorkshire coast with The Essential Orchestra, having first visited Scarborough Open Air Theatre in 2023. Box office: scarbroughopenairtheatre.com.

Becky Hill: Performing after Saturday’s race meeting on Knavesmire

Under starter’s orders: Becky Hill, Summer Music Saturday, York Racecourse, Saturday, first race at 1.20pm

BECKY Hill, two-time BRIT Award winner for Best Dance Act, opens the summer of post-racing concerts at York Racecourse, promising a high-energy performance on the “Glastonbury-style stage” after seven races. For her set list, she can pick from such hits as Gecko; Back & Forth; Wish You Well; Lose Control; Better Off Without You; Heaven On My Mind; Remember; My Heart Goes; Run; Crazy What Love Can Do; History and Disconnect. For race-day tickets, go to: yorkracecourse.co.uk.

York Mystery Plays: Returning to streets of York on June 28 and July 5

Theatrical event of the week: The York Mystery Plays, streets of York, June 28 and July 5, 10.30am to 4.50pm; Sunset In The Shambles Market, June 30 and July 1, 7.45pm  

THE four-yearly staging on the York Mystery Plays on pageant waggons take place at four locations across the city: free viewing at the Minster Refectory Gardens, Deansgate, (from 10.30am) King’s Square (from 11.10am), St Sampson’s Square (from 11.50am) and ticketed seats at Dean’s Park (from 12.30pm). Ten core plays will be complemented by further extracts to tell the story from The War In Heaven to Doomsday. For full details, go to: yorkmysteryplays.co.uk.

Special midsummer performances of five plays will be held in Shambles Market on June 30 and July 1, introduced by the York Waits musicians before Pageant Master Dr Alan Heaven guides the audience through each play, from the Creation sequence to the End of Days in the interactive show Doomsday. These shows begin at 7.45pm and end as the dusk is deepening before 10pm. Tickets: ticketsource.com/york-festival-trust.

The Choir Of Man: Harmony singing to the max at Grand Opera House, York. Picture: The Other Richard

Foot-stomping musical celebration of the week: The Choir Of Man, Grand Opera House, York, June 30 to July 2, 7.30pm; July 3, 4pm and 8pm; July 4, 2.30pm and 7.30pm

SET in the on-stage pub The Jungle, The Choir Of Man is billed as “the best trip to your local you’ll ever have” as a cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys combine beautiful harmonies and foot-stomping singalongs with tap dance and soulful storytelling in an uplifting celebration of community and friendship.

The debut UK & Ireland tour cast features Gustav Melbardis as Maestro; Oluwalonimi (Nimi) Owoyemi as Poet; Levi Tyrell Johnson as Hard Man; Ben Mabberley as Joker; Rob Godfrey as Beast; Jack Skelton as Handyman; Joshua Lloyd as Barman; Sam Walter as Romantic and Aaron Pottenger as Bore performing Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns N’ Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry hits. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

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Dominic Goodwin recalls variety’s golden days in solo comedy show Twice Nightly on tour in Helmsley, Richmond and York

Dominic Goodwin in a triptych of variety guises in Twice Nightly

DOMINIC Goodwin, one-time manager of Helmsley Arts Centre, pantomime dame and actor, returns to his old stamping ground with his first one-man comedy show in a celebration of the glory days of variety on Friday and Saturday.

Written and performed by Goodwin and directed by York director and actor Thomas Frere, Twice Nightly follows the story of struggling comedian Freddie Francis in 1956 as the final curtain hovers over variety.

Many acts of the time are highlighted, including Norman “Over The Garden Wall” Evans (said to be an influence on Les Dawson), Stockton comic Jimmy James, wartime star Robb Wilton and the iconic Max Miller.

“It’s been an honour to perform these stars’ material, and even more so to have the backing of the families,” says Dominic, who will be on tour until July 25, including further North Yorkshire performances at the Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond, on July 10 and 11 and Friargate Theatre, York, on July 17 and 18.

Dominic Goodwin at his most colourful in Twice Nightly

Here Dominic discusses Twice Nightly, variety’s golden age and going solo with CharlesHutchPress.


Introduce the show, Dominic…

“Freddie Francis has been a second spot comic for 30 years, touring the country on every variety bill going. We find him in 1956 recalling his life spent touring the halls; the ups, the downs, the riotous, the fantastic and the downright silly!

“He recalls his days entertaining the troops during the Second World War, playing at the infamous Glasgow Empire, and we discover what really happened when a speciality act lost her snake on stage!!

“Ultimately Twice Nightly is a fading memory of the variety stage. The death of something that has been part of everyone’s life for decades is now on the decline. Where will Freddie go when he finishes this tour? Who will he go back to, and ultimately who really cares?”

What are your own memories of the golden era of variety? Did you see any of the icons on stage?
“Oh how I wish I had! I’ve only ever seen them in YouTube clips. The sheer diversity of the acts on offer was extraordinary. From singers to comics, contortionists to animal acts like Rumba the man-eating lion! And even a guy who would walk on stage with a live bull!”

Who are your variety heroes?
“It would have to be Jimmy James – he of the “box routine” fame – and Norman Evans. Norman was the forerunner of Les Dawson and Roy Barraclough with their Ada & Cissie act. Norman did his ‘over the garden wall’ sketches with his character of Fanny Fairbottom. Very funny sketches and at the time there was nothing like it.

“I suppose the ultimate variety star would be Max Miller. He had the longest stage life and was top of the bill for longer.”

What has been the gestation of Twice Nightly from idea to stage?
“I originally wrote it in 2015 and performed in Scotland with a cast of eight, when [Easingwold actor, songwriter and magician] Phil Grainger was in it, but the intention was always to do it as a one-man play.”

Dominic Goodwin’s Dr Watson, left, and Julian Finnegan’s Sherlock Holmes in Kirkbymoorside company Pyramus and Thisbe Productions’ 2021 revival of Stuart Fortey’s two-hander Holmes And Watson: The Farewell Tour

What was the attraction of performing a solo show when we have often seen you in double acts previously?
“My friends at The Swallow [Scotland’s smallest theatre at Ravenstone, Whithorn, Dumfries and Galloway], have asked about a return of Twice Nightly for a few years and after the success of Switcheroo last year I decided the time was right, while I was still young enough to tackle a one-man play!”

Why is the show called Twice Nightly?
“In the heyday days of variety, the shows would be performed twice nightly, at 6pm and 8pm, so the title kind of fits!”

Which variety acts feature in Twice Nightly?

“The show includes routines from amongst others, Max Miller, Rob Wilton, Jimmy James and Norman Evans, and renditions of many of the popular songs of the time, such as The Man Who Broke The Bank At Monte Carlo, Happy Days Are Here Again and Goodnight Sweetheart.”

What form has the “backing of the [variety act] families” taken for Twice Nightly?
“That has been amazing! Firstly, the Max Miller Appreciation Society has been very helpful. They’ve given me permission to use his gags, and on the matinee of the week I’m doing in Brighton they have booked the theatre out for a social event! So they’ll all sit and watch the show and then we’ll have a little do.

“Jimmy James’s granddaughter has given me permission to do the box routine, and she is actually coming to the show on Thursday (25/6/2026) at Grantham! I had quite an online trawl to find her.

“The Norman Evans routine was written by Ronnie Taylor, who died in the 1970s, and all his scripts and ephemera went to the V&A, but his two daughters have also given me permission to perform a Fanny Fairbottom sketch!”

Dominic Goodwin in the role of Norman Evans’s variety character Fanny Fairbottom

Why did the good old days of variety die out? 

“Things changed, The Beatles, Cliff Richard etc. People wanted something different. When Johnnie Ray came to the UK in 1956, that was the beginning of the end. Then of course the introduction of television, people could see their favourite acts while sitting in their living rooms.”

Have you worked with director Thomas Frere previously and why did you pick him to direct Twice Nightly?
“Thom is a dear good friend and a top-notch director. We’ve worked together a few times now, although always as co-actors, from panto in 2009 to Switcheroo in 2025. This is the first time he’s sat in the director’s seat and I wouldn’t hesitate to hook him again.

“He knows instinctively what will work and what won’t. His understanding of the relationship between actor and audience is top-notch.

“We’ve together worked to give the show its shape and form. He’s also very well aware of when it’s time to stop for the day in the rehearsal room. Doing a one-man show is pretty knackering and generally he wouldn’t let me go on after 4pm.”

What are your happiest memories of your time as manager of Helmsley Arts Centre?
“Running the youth theatre for so many years and watching youngsters really get to grips with texts; meeting some top-class names, like Jonathan Miller, Nicholas Parsons and Robert Powell, and working alongside people who had a real love of the arts centre and its aims.”

Finally, Dominic, why should we see Twice Nightly?
“Come along for a laugh. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, you’ll go away having had a high old time. If you want to laugh, go! It’s not a show to be viewed as a piece of history; it’s full of fun, with an added dollop of pathos thrown in for good measure.”

Pyramus and Thisbe Productions presents Dominic Goodwin in Twice Nightly, Helmsley Arts Centre, June 26 & 27, 7.30pm; Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond, July 10 & 11, 7.30pm; Friargate Theatre, York, July 17 & 18, 7.30pm.

Box office: Helmsley, 01439 771700 or helmsleyarts.co.uk; Richmond, 01748 825252 or georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk; York, 01904 655317 or ridinglights.org/friargatetheatre.

Dominic Goodwin making his point in Twice Nightly

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Feel the tension as York Light enters The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Daniel Wood, left, Stephen Wright, Lotty Farmer, Rosa Burns, Hannah Shaw and James Dickinson in in York Light Opera Company’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

SIX awkward spelling champions learn that winning – and losing – is not everything in York Light Opera Company’s summer production, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

Conceived by Rebecca Feldman, with music and lyrics by William Finn and book by Rachel Sheinkin, the 2004 American musical will be staged at Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, from June 24 to July 4 under the direction of Neil Wood and musical direction of Martin Lay, at the helm of a four-piece band.

Be prepared for a riotous ride as an eclectic group of six “mid-pubescents” battle for the spelling championship of a lifetime in a fast-paced, wildly humorous show replete with audience participation.

While candidly disclosing touching stories from their home life, the tweens spell their way through a series of – potentially made-up – words, each hoping to never hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing ding of the bell that signals a spelling mistake.

Rosa Byrne’s Marcy Park rehearsing for York Light’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Taking part will be Lotty Farmer’s Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre; Hannah Shaw’s Olive Ostrovsky; Rosa Burns’ Marcy Park; Daniel Wood’s Leaf Coneybear; James Dickinson’s Chip Tolentino and Stephen Wright’s William Barfeé.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee promises unforgettable entertainment with a heart-warming message highlighting themes of friendship, identity and perseverance, all while celebrating the awkwardness and excitement of growing up,” says Neil, as York Light looks to build on the success of Eurobeat and Annie, Martyn Knight’s final production in the director’s chair.

“I love this quirkly little show that was first done as a workshop show in 2004 and then played off-Broadway and made its Broadway debut in 2005. Spelling Bee is one of those shows that invites the audience into the world of the spellers to cheer, to laugh, to cry and just have a wonderful evening. It’s back in New York, playing off-Broadway, winning every award insight, playing in a complex with six productions going on in one building.

“It has top-quality writing and is just as relevant today from when it was first performed and we’ve upated with a reference to President Trump! With a show that has such a cult following, once you see it, you will want to come back over and over again!”

Vice-principal Douglas Panch (Neil Foster), left, watching the contestants, James Dickinson’s Chip Tolentino, front, left, Daniel Wood’s Leaf Coneybear, Lotty Farmer’s Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre and Stephen Wright’s William Barfeé, in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Part of the fun will be audience members’ opportunity to be guest spellers in each performance. “I’ll be chatting beforehand, saying, ‘do you fancy trying out your spelling’? It’s not compulsory, but I’m confident we will find people to do it,” says Neil.

The show has echoes of Dennis Potter’s Blue Remembered Hills and Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers in having adult actors play children. “The six main spellers in the competition are 12/13-year-old adolescents, and most people will be able to recognise themselves in at least one of them,” says Neil.

“There’s a geek;  a zany, off-the-rails one; an alpha-male; a future businesswoman, already looking career driven; a young politician, being brought up by two dads, and a girl whose parents adore her but they’re always busy pursuing their own lives. I think the audience will end up rooting for the one they identify with the most.

“There’s a proper plot in this character-centred show, whereas there wasn’t in Eurobeat, which was more like ‘an experience’. The three adults running the event are important too: the one-time champion (Katie Brier’s Rona Lisa Piretti), the vice-principal (Neil Foster’s Douglas Panch) and the comfort counsellor (Mikhail Lim’s Mitch Mahoney), who is there to look after the children, should they not success in the spelling bee. They all have a back story, and the stories intertwine with little bits of flashback.”

Mikhail Lim’s comfort counsellor Mitch Mahoney in rehearsal

The fact that the children are played by adults, “you just get transfixed by them,” suggests Neil. “It calls on a totally different skill set for the actors , and one of the things that we’ve really worked on is the consistency of the characters as they’re on stage all the time, so they have to hold those characters traits at all times.”

Should you be wondering, Neil’s research reveals there are no fewer than nine Putnam Counties in the United States. “But then there are 20 different Springfields there by the way, including the one in Missouri in The Sopranos and the town in The Simpsons!” he says.

“We’ve given it over to the company members to find their accents for our show, which is set at a regional heat before the national final in Washington,”

The setting will be a school gymnasium, where the young spellers must exercise their minds. “We’ll have a basketball hoop on the set to give a sense of a gym,” says Neil.

Looking forward to tomorrow’s opening, he enthuses: “What I love about the show is how the audience can forget about the outside world for two hours, when they’ll smile, they’ll be moved by the story, they’ll have fun – and you’ve got to have fun at the theatre!

“We giggle at rehearsals from start to finish, and you have to do that with this piece because, if we’re not having fun, nor will the audience, but I guarantee they will come out with grins on their faces.”

York Light Opera Company in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, June 24 to 27 & June 30 to July 4, 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm Saturday matinees and 2pm Sunday matinee (28/6/2026). Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Katie Brier’s Rona Lisa Piretti, left, and Hannah Shaw’s Olive Ostrovsky in a scene from York Light’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

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Bar Convent is taking part in York Mystery Plays Festival for the first time. Here’s how

The poster for the Bar Convent’s debut involvement in the York Mystery Plays Festival

THE Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre, in Blossom Street, York, is celebrating its medieval heritage by taking part in the theatrical spectacle of the York Mystery Plays Festival for the first time.

Making the headlines are:

* Women in the Mystery Plays exhibition, until August 29.

* Performance of Journey To Calvary in the garden, July 4, 2pm.

* Medieval Arma Christi scroll, on display until July 4, for the last time until 2027.

* Family-friendly activities during summer school holidays.

Every four years, the streets of York are transformed into an immersive historic stage as part of the Mystery Plays tradition dating back to medieval times. The Bar Convent is thrilled to be included in the programme of special events taking over the city with performances, exhibitions, talks, trails and more.

Dr Hannah Thomas: Special collections manager and research fellow at the Bar Convent. Picture: Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre

Dr Hannah Thomas says: “The discovery of the incredible rare medieval Arma Christi prayer scroll has enabled us to explore and reinterpret our medieval heritage and connections across the city.

“York Mystery Plays Festival is such a befitting partnership for us with its religious content, our medieval links, both histories intertwining with the Reformation and the fact that the Arma Christi scroll depicts the Journey to Calvary.

“We are incredibly excited to showcase our collections to new audiences, to work with Diane Heaven on her new display and for people to experience our garden in a new and exciting way.”

Diane Heaven, curator of the Women in the Mystery Plays exhibition, says: “I have worked on the York Mystery Plays Festival for five cycles in various capacities. This year, I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to curate this exhibition at the Bar Convent to honour and celebrate the Women of the Mystery Plays, past and present.

“From Lucy Toulmin Smith, the woman who re-discovered and then translated the medieval manuscripts, to those working on the plays today who have been generous enough to provide us with scrap books, model stages, fabrics and sketches that give us a fascinating and unique insight into the creative processes behind the plays.”

Women in the Mystery Plays and the Arma Christi display are included in admission to the Bar Convent exhibition, open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm, last admission 4pm. Journey To Calvary is a free event.

Women in the Mystery Plays, on display in the Gregory Gallery at the Bar Convent. Picture: Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre

Activities for York Mystery Plays Festival at Bar Convent

Women in the Mystery Plays, curated by Diane Heaven, until August 29.

FASCINATING exploration of women in the York Mystery Plays, past and present, revealing hidden stories, voices and contributions across the years. The exhibition also responds to the Bar Convent’s medieval collections and significance as a driving force for equality both historically and in the present day.

Curator Diane Heaven has taken on many roles in the York Mystery Plays over the years, but for 2026, she has written and adapted the music for Doomsday, designed the costumes and set and made many of the costumes (examples of which can be seen on display at the Bar Convent).

Arma Christi, on public display, until July 4

ARMA Christi, the most spectacular medieval prayer scroll in the world, is on display for the last time until 2027. From the 11 scrolls that have survived the Reformation, the Bar Convent Arma Christi is the best preserved and the only example to have responses, which gives new insight into how experts previously thought the scrolls were used. This will be on display alongside the convent’s medieval collection.

Summer at the Bar Convent, July 20 to September 5

IN celebration of the York Mystery Plays Festival, enjoy a summer of creativity at the Bar Convent. Visit the new display Women of the Mystery Plays and take inspiration from the creatives past and present who have worked on these spectacular medieval historic plays.

Journey To Calvary in rehearsal. Picture: York Mystery Plays Trust

Find children’s costumes to try on and explore the beautiful colours of the medieval Arma Christi, alongside the objects throughout the exhibition, to create your own artwork.

Step into the garden where you will find easels and art materials to capture the nature that surrounds you. All ages and abilities are welcome.

Admission applies to the exhibition. Easels are available at no charge, Monday to Friday.

Journey To Calvary, July 4, 2pm

THE Bar Convent garden will become a stage for Journey To Calvary: Play No. 34, presented in response to the Arma Christi scroll. For the story of Jesus having to carry his cross to the place of crucifixion, uniquely among this summer’s plays, Journey To Calvary does not utilise a pageant waggon, on account of the fundamentally processional nature of the play.

This free performance will run for 20 minutes approximately; some seating will be provided. Food and drink can be bought at the Bar Convent café, with a discount to the Bar Convent exhibition available for those who attend. Find more details at yorkmysteryplays.co.uk/the-2026-festival/.

Dr Isobel Staton, special collections officer, with a selection of the Bar Convent’s medieval objects. Picture: Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre

Bar Convent: back story

THE Bar Convent was established in 1686, when it was illegal to be a Roman Catholic, hiding in plain sight as a school for girls. The foundress of the order was Yorkshire woman Mary Ward (1585-1625), a pioneer in women’s education who famously said, “There is no such difference between men and women that women may not do great things”.

Over the past 300 years, the order has been entrusted with the safe-keeping of many relics and artefacts, many of them on display in the exhibition.

Today, the Bar Convent is the oldest living convent in Great Britain.  The house is central to the global order and there are more than 200 schools worldwide in Mary Ward’s name.

The house is open for all faiths and none to explore, with an exhibition, chapel, café, garden, meeting rooms and guest house on site.

The Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre, in Blossom Street, York. Picture: Gareth Buddo

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More Things To Do in York and beyond. Hutch’s List No. 25, from The York Press

Al Dunn, Matt Freeman and Nick Bunt in Oh Zeus! on Le Navet Bete’s fifth visit to York Theatre Royal. Picture: Mark Senior

A MYTHOLOGICAL farce and Lenny Henry at large, a snappy crocodile and a Man-Wulf, a spelling bee musical and a mirrored installation keep Charles Hutchinson’s arty eye on the ball and off the football.

Greek comedy of the week: Le Navet Bete in Oh Zeus!, York Theatre Royal, today, 2pm and 7.30pm

EXETER’S chaotic comedy specialists, Le Navet Bete, conduct a riotous ride through Ancient Greece, the Underworld and back in Oh Zeus! Written by director John Nicholson and company founders Al Dunn, Nick Bunt and Matt Freeman, this mythological farce finds the stability of Olympus being threatened by the marriage of Zeus’s daughter, Hebe, to a mere mortal, whereupon the King of the Gods hatches a plan to derail the wedding.

Expect physical comedy, outrageous jokes and fast-paced pandemonium as Dunn, Bunt and Freeman play 40 characters between them. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Beverley Knight: Born to perform at York Barbican. Picture: Lewis Shaw

Recommended but sold out: Beverley Knight, Born To Perform, York Barbican, tonight, 7.30pm

QUEEN of British soul Beverley Knight shares stories from her life on stage, as well as performing her biggest hits, musical theatre favourites and cherished songs that have inspired her on her 20-date UK tour.

“Born To Perform is me taking you on a journey through my life on both music and theatre stages, using my memories and of course my songs. I’m stripping back my sound so the audience can lean in a little closer and really hear my soul,” says Knight, whose hits include Made It Black, Greatest Day, Get Up, Shoulda Woulda Coulda, Gold, Come As You Are, Keep This Fire Burning and Piece Of My Heart. Her special guest is Gabriella Cilmi. Box office for returns only: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Anastacia: Playing Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Not That Kind tour

Coastal gigs of the week: TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Skunk Anansie & Garbage, tonight; Anastacia and Heather Small tomorrow, gates 6pm

SKUNK Anansie and Garbage play Scarborough on a six-date tour. Formed in London in 1994, fronted by Skin, Skunk Anansie blend hard rock with political and social themes;  American alternative rock band Garbage, fronted by Scottish singer Shirley Manson, combine rock, electronica and pop influences.

Chicago singer Anastacia heads to the Yorkshire coast to perform I’m Outta Love, Paid My Dues and Left Outside Alone et al on her Not That Kind tour. London soul singer Heather Small, of M People fame, is her special guest. Box office: scarboroughopenairtheatre.com.

York artist Ric Liptrot’s illustration for tomorrow’s 2026 Bishy Road Street Party

Community event of the week: Bishy Road Street Party, Bishopthorpe Road, York, tomorrow, 11am to 4pm

 CELEBRATING community spirit and independent shops, Bishopthorpe Road Traders Association’s 2026 Bishy Road Street Party combines live music, family activities and food and drink, plus street vendors and community stalls. The main stage  plays host to performances by Yorkshire Voices (11am), Third Parallel (11.45am), Gaia On Fire (Juno, 12.30pm) and Bargestra (1.30pm), climaxing with headline sets by the Yorky Pud Street Band (14.15pm) and The Unnamed Band (3.15pm).

Look out for five children’s performances and interactive sessions, with appearances from Evergreen Explorers (11am), Professor Dan (12 noon), Baby Band (1pm), Elevate Dance Sessions (2pm) and Josh Benson (3pm). A children’s zone, featuring face painting, mud kitchen, crafts, hair braiding and balloons, will be set up on Ebor Street and entertainment will be spread across the event space. Charities, artists, makers and community groups offer games, activities and information. Free to attend; no booking required.

Artist and designer Es Devlin in the Temple of the Fours Winds at Castle Howard. Picture: Rick Walker, PA Media

Installation of the week: Es Devlin, Library Of The Four Winds, Temple of the Four Winds, Castle Howard, near Malton, until September 27

AS part of the Vanbrugh 300 celebrations at Castle Howard, artist and designer Es Devlin responds to  Sir John Vanbrugh’s visionary architecture with her luminous installation Library Of The Four Winds, a new mirrored sculpture that takes over the Temple of the Four Winds in honour of the National Year of Reading.

The temple’s original use as a place for refreshment and reading was Devlin’s starting point for a central sculpture made up of hundreds of books, curated from the personal libraries of Vanbrugh and Devlin.  The temple is encompassed by four concentric tables where the public can read, draw, talk, eat and listen. The space will host events throughout the summer. Tickets: castlehoward.co.uk.

The many faces of Lenny Henry: Actor, comedian, fundraiser and stand-up anedoctalist

Talk of the week: Lenny Henry, Still At Large, Grand Opera House, York, June 23, 7.30pm

PART stand-up, part storytelling and part conversation with himself and with you, Still At Large finds Lenny Henry returning to the experiences that shaped him while also exploring the ideas, challenges and creative sparks driving him today.

From The Lenny Henry Show and Chef! to dramatic performances in Othello and The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power,  he traces the roles, characters and moments that have defined his six-decade career and shares what continues to inspire him as he reflects on a life lived out loud. On show will be the many versions of Lenny: actor, impressionist, comedian, fundraiser and stand-up anecdotalist. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Dan Wood, left, Stephen Wright, Lotty Farmer, Rosa Burns, Hannah Shaw and James Dickinson in York Light Opera Company’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Musical of the week: York Light Opera Company in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Theatre@41, Monkgate, York, June 24 to 27 & June 30 to July 4, 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm Saturday matinees and 2pm Sunday matinee (28/6/2026)

NEIL Wood directs York Light in Rebecca Feldman, William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin’s musical account of six ‘mid-pubescents’ battling for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing stories from their home life, the tweens spell their way through a series of words hoping to never hear the bell that signals a mistake.

Cue a heart-warming message that highlights themes of friendship, identity and perseverance, all while celebrating the awkwardness and excitement of growing up. Box office: tickets.41monkgate.co.uk.

Jordan Eskeisa, left, Marienella Phillips, Chelsea Da Silva (The Enormous Crocodile, front), Precious Abimbola and Ciara Hudson in The Enormous Crocodile. Picture: Danny Kaan

Mischievous adaptation of the week: Roald Dahl Story Company in Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical, York Theatre Royal, June 25 to 28, 10.30am and 1.30pm.

ROALD Dahl’s Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees. Only fellow jungle creatures can foil his “secret plans and clever tricks”, but they need courage aplenty to stop this greedy, grumptious, horrid brute.

Equipped with Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab’s tunes, Suhayla El-Bushra’s rib-tickling book and lyrics and Tom Brady’s additional music and lyrics, the dastardly family adventure has been developed and directed by Emily Lim, working in tandem with co-director and puppetry designer Toby Olié. Chelsea Da Silva, Precious Abimbola, Jordan Eskeisa, Ciara Hudson, Marienella Phillips and actor-musician René Francalanza star.Age guidance: Three plus. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Stewart Lee’s poster illustration for Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf, on tour for three nights at Grand Opera House, York

Comedy gigs of the week: Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf, Grand Opera House, York, June 25 to 27, 7.30pm

AFTER a five-night Theatre Royal run in the fledgling days of Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf in January 2025, the contrarian comedian returns to York for three more nights of testing whether the beast inside us all can be silenced with the silver bullet of Lee’s scalpel-sharp stand-up?

Lee will play the same material three ways: first up, telling liberal jokes in a liberal way, then, after a screaming transformation into the Man-Wulf, reactionary jokes in a reactionary way post-interval and, finally, wolf’s head removed, reactionary jokes in a liberal, left-leaning way. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Karl Mullen: Playing everything from Chopin to Oasis, via Led Zeppelin and Les Dawson, at The Old Paint Shop

Cabaret gig of the week: The Old Paint Shop presents Karl Mullen, York Theatre Royal Studio, June 26, 8pm

AFTER two Old Paint Shop gigs last year, Karl Mullen, upright-piano busker, Phoenix Inn fixture and Leeds Piano Competition Pub Piano Champion, completes his hat-trick, serving up his high-energy take on everything from Chopin to Oasis, via Led Zeppelin and Les Dawson, packed with outrageous and heartfelt stories from decades of gigging. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

In Focus: Prima Choral Artists, Under One Sky, National Centre for Early Music, York, Sunday, 21/6/2026, 5pm & 7.30pm

Prima Choral Artists; poster for Sunday’s concerts at the double on Father’s Day

PRODUCER and artistic director Eve Lorian leads Prima Choral Artists in a compelling journey through global vocal traditions in two concerts on Sunday at the National Centre For Early Music, St Margaret’s Church, Walmgate, York.

Under One Sky is a signature programme by this Polish-born, York-based choral director, who has consistently introduced unique concerts and explored new territory for York choirs for nearly two decades.

Eve’s latest artistic compilation is designed to celebrate the relationship between musical language, cultural identity and vocal technique, while recognising the unifying nature of the choral canon. Spanning a wide geographical and cultural spectrum, the repertoire highlights distinctive approaches to tone production, ornamentation, rhythm and ensemble cohesion.

Sunday’s programme opens with Sakura, a Japanese folk melody characterised by its pentatonic modality and lyrical phrasing. The Bulgarian works Kaval Sviri and Dilmano Dilbero exemplify the highly resonant, open-throated “white voice” technique, and this vocal aesthetic continues in Serbian folk music, where dance-derived rhythms and communal expression are central.

Folk traditions of the North Atlantic are represented through the French-Canadian J’entends le Moulin, with its rhythmic drive, alongside Wild Mountain Thyme and Gaelic Song Of The Boatman, which reflect the modal inflections of Scottish and Gaelic song traditions.

Prima Choral Artists’ founder, producer and artistic director Eve Lorian

The programme broadens even further afield through Yeish Kochavim (Hebrew), Evohé (Venezuela) and Dao Mai Fan Ye’ (Mandarin), each illustrating the interaction between text, rhythm and collective energy within their respective traditions. These works foreground the role of music in both ritual and communal celebration.

The final section centres on vocal traditions from the Torres Strait Islands and Southern Africa. Sesere Eeye reflects oral transmission practices and community-based performance, while Ngothando, Ndikhokhele Bawo and Papaoutai demonstrate the harmonies and call-and-response structures that are foundational to many African musical forms.

Eve’s diligent research has brought together this sparkling burst of music with the support of a choir who are no strangers to world music and singing in multiple languages.

“We have always been proud of our multi-cultural, international identity,” says Eve. “Music has always been a unifying force for good. These concerts, celebrating unity through diversity, represent a truth that sometimes only music can express.”

Giving a brief glimpse into the creative process behind these events, she adds: “Selecting the music takes weeks upon weeks of research and listening. I thrive on fresh choices, on presenting the unexpected – and these pieces are far from the standard choral repertoire.

Prima Choral Artists in concert under Eve Lorian’s direction

“But the title came so naturally: Under One Sky says everything that we mean to convey in these two performances!”

International connections for Eve and Prima Choral Artists are not merely constrained to concert programming. For more than a decade, Eve has led the way in introducing outstanding overseas opportunities for York choirs.

This commitment continues this summer with a concert tour to Prague from July 8 to 13 to take part in the International Choir and Orchestra Festival (Prague Festival 2026, July 9 to 13).

On September 6, Eve will welcome the Norwegian choir Fanakoret, from Bergen, for a Friendship performance with Prima Choral Artists at St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York, at 5pm.

“Before these opportunities comes the unmissable chance to join Prima on Father’s Day on Sunday at the National Centre For Early Music with the two time slots designed to complement everyone’s plans and make for a truly special weekend celebration,” she says.

Tickets are available from www.primachoral.com; with limited seating available, booking is recommended.

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The Enormous Crocodile is ready to snap into musical action at York Theatre Royal

Ciara Hudson, left, Jordan Eskeisa and Chelsea Da Silva in Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical, on tour at York Theatre Royal. Picture: Danny Kaan

HE’s greedy, he’s grumptious, he’s horrid! Welcome to the lovable anti-hero world of The Enormous Crocodile, a mischievous musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s snappy book, on tour at York Theatre Royal from June 25 to 28.

Equipped with Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab’s tunes, Suhayla El-Bushra’s rib-tickling book and lyrics and Tom Brady’s additional music and lyrics, the dastardly family adventure has been developed and directed by Emily Lim, working in tandem with co-director and puppetry designer Toby Olié, with set and costume design by Fly Davis.

Originally co-produced by the Roald Dahl Story Company, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and Leeds Playhouse, The Enormous Crocodile will be performed in York by the tour cast of professional theatre debutant Chelsea Da Silva, Precious Abimbola, Jordan Eskeisa, Ciara Hudson, Marienella Phillips and actor-musician René Francalanza.

“The tour has been going really, really well,” says puppetry designer Toby Olié. “The book was written for age three upwards, but we wanted to make a show that parents and carers could enjoy as much as children. I genuinely think that anyone can see this show.

Toby Olié: Puppetry designer and co-director of The Enormous Crocodile The Musical. Picture: Steve Tanner

“Because I work in puppetry, I try to make work that hits the sweet spot, like Pixar’s work. It’s an inclusive, family-friendly piece that our director [Emily Lim] describes as ‘an explosion of radical joy’. It’s bombastic, it’s gregarious but it’s still emotional.”

Toby was first approached to be involved in the musical production in early 2020, but then the Covid-19 pandemic intervened. “We had lots of Zoom meetings that year, but the show didn’t open until December 2023 at Leeds Playhouse, where it was their Christmas show for children,” he says.

“It’s then gone to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, in London, and last autumn it went to Minneapolis and Los Angeles over Christmas. So there’s a hunger for it as a beloved book and a stage adaptation that feels entertaining and something for everyone in the family.”

Toby’s brief was to make “playful and inventive puppets, where we don’t hide the actors”. “Everyone is on show as you watch five adults telling the story with puppets attached to them in many different forms,” he says.

Jordan Eskeisa, Chelsea Da Silva (The Enormous Crocodile), Marienella Phillips and Precious Abimbol in the jungle in The Enormous Crocodile. Picture: Danny Kaan

The “crocodile” of the title appears in three guises. “The first time you see him, he’s in the swamp, so you only see the parts that appear above the surface, like the Loch Ness Monster, so you see him first in mystery form,” says Toby.

“Then you see what we call the ‘crocmobile’, which is a huge body, with the head mounted on the steering wheel, in front of the actor, and a tail behind that misbehaves as the ‘crocmobile’ moves around.

“Then, because the crocodile has ‘secret plans and clever tricks’ to disguise him, he rebuilds himself in various devious forms, where he takes more risks and you won’t  see him coming!”

Dahl’s 12-page picture book has been turned into a 55-minute play. “Nothing in the original book has been changed, and certainly in the adaptation, we were encouraged to make a story for everyone with characterisation that wasn’t pandering to early-age audiences,” says Toby.

“We knew we could embellish it for the stage show in an expanded opportunity to turn it into a full stage show, where the big part was deciding where the songs would fit in. The songwriters and musical director were rigorous in doing that, and for the directorial and design team it was about fleshing out the characters.

Jordan Eskeisa and Ciara Hudson with the Giant African Land Snails in The Enormous Crocodile The Musical. Picture: Danny Kaan

“We also realised you can’t just get children being ‘in the jungle’; we have to explain why they would be there, so we’ve enjoyed finding ways for the audience to meet the children  before the crocodile does.”

The show has invented a scout group, the Jungle Juniors, led by an enthusiastic but haphazard teacher. “The children in the group are represented by ‘humanettes’: puppets that have their roots in vaudeville,” says Toby. “They have puppet arms, puppet legs, puppet torsos, but the actors’ heads, which gives them much more of a children’s scale that makes it look like the crocodile could eat them.”

In  Dahl’s story, should you need a refresher course, the Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees. Only the other jungle creatures can foil his “secret plans and clever tricks”, but they need courage aplenty to stop this greedy brute.

“Tonally, in finding the balance in the story, the songs, even the characterisation, you have to find the meeting point where the gleeful, evil buffoon meets the hungry, scary croc,” says Toby.

Jordan Eskeisa, Marienella Phillips, Chelsea Da Silva (The Enormous Crocodile), Precious Abimbola and Ciara Hudson in a scene from The Enormous Crocodile. Picture: Danny Kaan

“The audience are in that place where they think, ‘I sort of love the croc, but I’m scared of him too’, like Cruella de Vil or Captain Hook. The crocodile is the anti-hero figure, where the audience cheer when he’s defeated, but they think ‘where’s he gone?’, because they want to see him again.”

The show has changed with each iteration, including making changes to the storytelling. “This is an entirely new cast for the tour that joined at the start of the year. They’re funny, they can sing and they’re really good puppeteers, some with experience, some new to it, and it’s a show where the group dynamic really defines it, bringing their own slant to it,” says Toby.

New animal species have been added to the jungle puppets throughout the story. “I’m calling them ‘narrator characters’ who step out to engage with the audience,” says Toby. “We have frogs in the swamp; Plover birds, who pick the crocodile’s teeth – they’re the ‘dentist bird’! – who act like a Greek chorus and are on the audience’s side, which I felt we needed.

“There are Giant African Land Snails, with slimy sound effects to go with them, and two ‘Bush Babies’ [Galago] too. They’re like the gatekeepers of the story because, when you have an anti-hero antagonist, it feels important to have characters that ‘check in’ with you.”

The Enormous Crocodile The Musical, York Theatre Royal, June 25 to 28, 10.30am and 1.30pm. Age guidance: Three plus. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

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Bedern Hall to stage The Deluge exhibition for 2026 York Mystery Plays Festival and brace of Bedern Sessions concerts

The Deluge artworks keep flowing at Bedern Hall until July 3

BEDERN Hall will be buzzing with creativity, culture and entertainment from June 20 to July 3 when playing host to a special art exhibition, followed by the Bedern Sessions live music programme on July 17 and August 21.

The 14th century dining hall, in Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, York, will present an exhibition exploring the theme of The Deluge in association with 2026 York Mystery Plays Festival.

A diverse collection of artwork created in a variety of media will be showcased, ranging from contemporary and experimental pieces to more traditional artistic interpretations. Artists have been invited to respond creatively to the theme, offering visitors a thought-provoking and engaging experience within one of York’s most atmospheric historic buildings.

Exhibits in The Deluge exhibition at Bedern Hall

The exhibition will be installed during the day on June 20, followed by a special preview and awards evening, when the public is invited to attend.

Significantly, the show has been planned to complement Bedern Hall’s existing programme of activities. All pre-booked events will continue as scheduled, while the hall will maintain its regular Wednesday to Friday opening pattern, welcoming visitors for refreshments, tours and afternoon teas.

The Bedern Sessions have established a reputation for bringing talented performers into the distinctive setting of the beautifully restored medieval hall, creating intimate evenings of live entertainment. Full details will follow.

Pen and Stu: On the Bedern Sessions bill for July 17

Commenting on the summer programme ahead, Bedern Hall manager Elly Richmond says: “We are delighted to be bringing together visual arts and live music at Bedern Hall this summer. The art exhibition, in partnership with the York Mystery Plays Festival, provides an exciting opportunity for artists to interpret the theme of The Flood in imaginative and unexpected ways.

“Together with our Bedern Sessions concerts, we are looking forward to welcoming both local residents and visitors to enjoy a vibrant programme of cultural events in this remarkable historic setting.”

Paula Ryan: Performing at Bedern Sessions on August 21

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What’s On in Ryedale, York and beyond. Hutch’s List No. 25, from Gazette & Herald

Artist and designer Es Devlin with her Library of the Four Winds installation in the Temple of the Four Winds, Castle Howard. Picture: James Drury

ES Devlin’s mirrored installation at Castle Howard and Lenny Henry’s career reflections stand out among Charles Hutchinson’s joyful June recommendations.

Installation of the week: Es Devlin, Library Of The Four Winds, Temple of the Four Winds, Castle Howard, near Malton, until September 27

AS part of the Vanbrugh 300 celebrations at Castle Howard, artist and designer Es Devlin responds to the visionary architecture of Sir John Vanbrugh with her luminous installation Library Of The Four Winds, a new mirrored sculpture that takes over the Temple of the Four Winds in honour of the National Year of Reading too.

The temple originally was used as a place for refreshment and reading: Devlin’s starting point for a central sculpture made up of hundreds of books, curated from the personal libraries of Vanbrugh and Devlin.  The temple is encompassed by four concentric tables where the public can read, draw, talk, eat and listen. The space will host events throughout the summer. Tickets: castlehoward.co.uk.

NE Theatre York’s poster for Les Miserables School Edition at Joseph Rowntree Theatre

Youth theatre show of the week: NE Theatre York in Les Miserables School Edition, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, until Saturday, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee

ALAIN Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel of redemption will be performed by under-18s from NE Theatre York, directed by Steve Tearle, with a 15-piece orchestra under Joe Allen’s musical direction, projections by Tom Turner and the obligatory  barricade in the set design.

The musical tells the story of former prisoner Jean Valjean, who is pursued for 17 years by police inspector Javert against the backdrop of a revolution brewing in 19th-century Paris. The principal cast features Sam Brophy’s Jean Valjean, Will Roberts’s Javert, Emil Marczuk’s  Marius, Juliette Sellamuttu’s Fantine, Oscar Smith’s Enjolras, Callum Richardson’s Thenardier and Bella Gledhill’s Madame Thenardier. Box office:  01904 501935 or josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.

Indie rock gig of the week: The Kooks, TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, tomorrow, gates 6pm

BRIGHTON indie rock favourites The Kooks are marking 20 years since the release of debut album Inside In/Inside Out in a set list likely to feature You Don’t Love Me, Naïve, She Moves In Her Own Way, Ooh La, Always Where I Need To Be, Shine On, Junk Of The Heart (Happy) and Around Town. 

In the line-up will be Luke Pritchard,  vocals and guitar, Hugh Harris, bass, guitar and synthesiser, and Alexis Nuñez, drums and percussion. Standing tickets for the show have sold out. Box office: scarboroughopenairtheatre.com.

Rock Paper Goose: Showcasing Okay! album and new songs at The Old Paint Shop

Indie pop gig of the week: The Old Paint Shop presents Rock Paper Goose, York Theatre Royal Studio, tomorrow, 8pm

YORK multi-instrumentalists Nathan Greaves (vocals, guitar, synth) and Olly Whitehouse (vocals, synth, bass) write catchy melodies, taking inspiration in equal measure from rock, pop and EDM, as heard on their September 2025 debut album, Okay!.

Expect a life-affirming live show full of playful energy and joy and the promise of new songs. Dawid Ziemba supports. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

The Overtones: Teaming up with Nadiya Bychkova and Louis Smith for Jukebox Idols Of The 50s and 60s at York Barbican

Song and dance show of the week: Jukebox Idols Of The 50s & 60s, with The Overtones, Nadiya Bychkova and Louis Smith, York Barbican, Friday, 7.30pm

VOCAL harmony group The Overtones, Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova and former Olympic gymnast and Strictly champion Louis Smith star together in Jukebox Idols, presented by the producers of West End hit Rip It Up 60s.

This non-stop whirlwind of 1950s and 1960s’ music icons such as Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, The Beatles, The Beach Boys and the Motown roster features a stellar supporting cast of dancers as they swing, bop, jive and rock’n’roll their way through the ultimate jukebox show. Box office: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Luka Watabe: York-based Japanese jazz singer, performing in sophisticated cabaret show at The Old Paint Shop

Cabaret night of the week: The Old Paint Shop presents Velvet Jazz Night with Luka Watabe, York Theatre Royal Studio, Friday, 8pm

LUKA Watabe and her professional jazz musicians combine old-school Hollywood glamour with her rich, smooth vocal styling in a sophisticated repertoire of classic jazz standards and modern songs delivered with a sleek jazz twist. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Beverley Knight: Born To Perform show at York Barbican. Picture: Lewis Shaw

Recommended but sold out: Beverley Knight, Born To Perform, York Barbican, Saturday, 7.30pm

QUEEN of British soul Beverley Knight shares stories from her life on stage, as well as performing her biggest hits, musical theatre favourites and cherished songs that have inspired her on her 20-date UK tour.

“Born To Perform is me taking you on a journey through my life on both music and theatre stages, using my memories and of course my songs. I’m stripping back my sound so the audience can lean in a little closer and really hear my soul,” says Knight, whose hits include Made It Black, Greatest Day, Get Up, Shoulda Woulda Coulda, Gold, Come As You Are, Keep This Fire Burning and Piece Of My Heart. Her special guest is Gabriella Cilmi. Box office for returns only: yorkbarbican.co.uk.

Co-headliners of the week: Skunk Anansie & Garbage, TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Saturday, gates 6pm

SKUNK Anansie and Garbage play Scarborough as part of a six-date tour. Formed in London in 1994, fronted by Skin, Skunk Anansie blend hard rock with political and social themes on such hits as Weak and Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Good). 

American alternative rock band Garbage, fronted by Scottish singer Shirley Manson, combine rock, electronica and pop influences, exemplified by Stupid Girl and Only Happy When It Rains. Box office: scarboroughopenairtheatre.com.

The many faces of Lenny Henry: Actor, impressionist, fundraiser and stand-up anecdotalist

Talk of the week: Lenny Henry, Still At Large, Grand Opera House, York, June 23, 7.30pm

PART stand-up, part storytelling and part conversation with himself and with you, Still At Large finds Lenny Henry returning to the experiences that shaped him while also exploring the ideas, challenges and creative sparks driving him today.

From The Lenny Henry Show and Chef! to dramatic performances in Othello and The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power,  he traces the roles, characters and moments that have defined his six-decade career and shares what continues to inspire him as he reflects on a life lived out loud. On show will be the many versions of Lenny: actor, impressionist, comedian, fundraiser and stand-up anecdotalist. Box office: atgtickets.com/york.

Al Dunn, Matt Freeman and Nick Bunt in Le Navet Bete’s Oh Zeus!, on tour at York Theatre Royal

In Focus: Le Navet Bete in Oh Zeus!, York Theatre Royal, June 18 to 20, 7.30pm plus 2pm Saturday matinee

CHAOTIC comedy specialists Le Navet Bete return to York Theatre Royal from tomorrow, this time with their riotous ride through the world of Greek mythology, Oh Zeus!.

The Exeter company previously toured their hit family shows Dracula: The Bloody Truth, King Arthur and Treasure Island to the St Leonard’s Place theatre.

Written by John Nicholson and Le Navet Bete and directed by Nicholson, Oh Zeus! finds the stability of Olympus being threatened by the marriage of Zeus’s daughter, Hebe, to a mere mortal, whereupon the King of the Gods hatches a plan to derail the wedding.

Cue three actors – company founders Al Dunn, Nick Bunt and Matt Freeman – playing 40 characters between them in a mythical farce that journeys through Ancient Greece, the Underworld and back.

Expect physical comedy, outrageous jokes, fast-paced pandemonium and togas aplenty in a show ideal for devotees of Fawlty Towers, Bottom and The Play That Goes Wrong.

Formed in 2008 in Exeter, Devon, Le Navet Bete travel around the UK and internationally, with support from Arts Council England, the Exeter Northcott Theatre and the Exeter Phoenix, on a mission to create and tour humorous, physical and accessible comedy theatre, replete with storytelling for “absolutely everyone (ages four to 104)” – although Oh Zeus! carries an age guidance of 12 plus. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

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Mythical mayhem of the week: Le Navet Bete in Oh Zeus!, York Theatre Royal, June 18 to 20, 7.30pm plus 2pm Saturday

Al Dunn, Matt Freeman and Nick Bunt in Le Navet Bete’s Oh Zeus. Picture: Mark Senior

CHAOTIC comedy specialists Le Navet Bete return to York Theatre Royal from tomorrow, this time with their riotous ride through the world of Greek mythology, Oh Zeus!.

The Exeter company previously toured their hit family shows Dracula: The Bloody Truth, King Arthur and Treasure Island to the St Leonard’s Place theatre.

Written by John Nicholson and Le Navet Bete and directed by Nicholson, Oh Zeus! finds the stability of Olympus being threatened by the marriage of Zeus’s daughter, Hebe, to a mere mortal, whereupon the King of the Gods hatches a plan to derail the wedding.

Cue three actors – company founders Al Dunn, Nick Bunt and Matt Freeman – playing 40 characters between them in a mythical farce that journeys through Ancient Greece, the Underworld and back.

Expect physical comedy, outrageous jokes, fast-paced pandemonium and togas aplenty in a show ideal for devotees of Fawlty Towers, Bottom and The Play That Goes Wrong.

Formed in 2008 in Exeter, Devon, Le Navet Bete travel around the UK and internationally, with support from Arts Council England, the Exeter Northcott Theatre and the Exeter Phoenix, on a mission to create and tour humorous, physical and accessible comedy theatre, replete with storytelling for “absolutely everyone (ages four to 104)” – although Oh Zeus! carries an age guidance of 12 plus. Box office: 01904 623568 or yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.

Nick Bunt in Le Navet Bete’s Oh Zeus!. Picture: Mark Senior