Judging by our latest photographs, the York Minster Mystery Plays will combine drama on an epic scale with remarkable attention to detail.
The sets, already previewed in model form, are now being constructed in the enormous nave of York Minster.
And the wigs and make-up for the principals and supporting cast – made up of hundreds of community players – are being finalised.
Set takes shape
York Minster is being transformed into a 1,000 seater auditorium as the Mystery Plays are staged in the great cathedral for the first time in 16 years – and only the second time in their history.
These photographs show the progress so far. The stage is partially completed, while sound and lighting rigs will be installed next week.
Bringing the characters to life
Professional theatre wig, hair and make-up artists Deb Kenton and Jules Greenan are leading a team of local volunteers to create the on-stage appearance for over 200 cast members.
The numerous beards and wigs that will be required are being created along with designs for make-up ranging from Jesus and doves through to realistic scars for the devils.
Deb said:
It’s a hugely exciting opportunity use our skills to wield the magic and help create the stunning visual spectacle that has historically accompanied these epic plays.
It is also a fantastic challenge because an actor may be playing a role requiring them to have a beard in one scene and then be clean shaven in the next.
Make up, wigs and facial hair must all be able to be removed quickly so that actors can change characters quickly throughout the play.
Mike wrote the scripts for the RSC’s productions of Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies, based on the best-selling novels by Hilary Mantel.