The spectacular 2023 season of ‘Kynren – an epic tale of England’ began its summer seven-show run in triumphant fashion on Saturday.
The multi-award-winning outdoor live show takes place on a purpose-built 7.5-acre stage on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland, County Durham and features a cast and crew of a thousand.
The show, which will be performed every Saturday until September 9, won rich praise from those who attended the preview event.
Carlton Reid, writing for American magazine Forbes, described the show as a “a ground-shaking dusk-to-starlight spectacular that features Boudicca battling with Romans through to The Beatles walking on water”.
Set within the shadows of magnificent Auckland Castle, the show’s relentless energy and wondrous special effects enthrall and excite spectators of all ages.
Lucy Perrin, from The Times, added: “The highs and lows of British history are squeezed into this spectacular 90-minute outdoor show that runs throughout summer and brings to life the royals, rebellions and celebrations that have shaped the last 2,000 years.
“Your little ones don’t need to be history buffs to love it: there are enough fireworks, special effects and stunts to keep everyone on the edge of their seats throughout the 29 dramatic scenes.
One of the most poignant scenes outlined the County Durham pit disaster, showing the brutal reality of the mining industry so entrenched in the North East, before the show returns to an exaltant finale.
Amy Smith, of The Northern Echo, concluded:
“Kynren is certainly not a show to be missed. It was my first time visiting and it did not disappoint. I left frantically searching for how I could volunteer to be a part of the performance next year!”
The sensational show which is a thrilling dash through 2,000 years of British history, runs every Saturday throughout the summer holidays until September 9.