Kynren’s 1000 strong volunteer cast and crew came together for the first major rehearsal of the season in preparation for the live-action spectacular’s eight-week run this summer.
The cast of the live outdoor theatre event took to the impressive seven-and-a-half acre stage to finesse the 29 scenes which transport audiences on a fascinating voyage through time across England’s history.
From practicing mesmerising group dance ensembles and the complex battle scenes featuring Viking and Anglo-Saxon leaders at the battle of Stamford Bridge, to Boudicca’s courageous but doomed uprising against the Romans – the cast and crew practiced performing with Kynren’s array of eye-catching props including jousting spears, shields and a variety of weapons.
Anna Warnecke, Kynren’s CEO said: “Our rehearsal weekend has been a wonderful chance for our cast and crew to come together and practice everything they have been rehearsing in their individual teams.
“Even though so many of our volunteers have performed in the show numerous times before, we want to ensure everyone feels comfortable with their roles so not only do we put on yet another season of incredible performances for our audiences, but our cast and crew have a wonderful time every night too.”
But it wasn’t just the cast and crew who were put through their paces – some of the larger props were also tested, including the Viking longship which effortless glides across the lake, as well as the full-sized castle as it rises out of the ground using hydraulics.
“Our talented selection of over 150 animals joined in at the rehearsals too and showed our incredible volunteers the skills they have been learning over the last few months. I couldn’t have been prouder of the dedication everyone has shown, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the delights we have in store for 2024,” adds Anna.
The 90-minute performances start at sunset and end in starlight and will be taking place every Saturday night from 27th July to 14th September.
Tickets cost from £26 for adults and from £16 for under 18s. Children aged 3 and under are free when sat on an adult’s knee.