IN the second play of the inaugural season of theatre shows at the National Centre for Early Music, York, Jack Drum Arts presents Jim Woodland's Arch Enemies on Thursday.
A murder mystery, ghost story, comedy and musical all in one new play, Arch Enemies is set in County Durham in 1726 at the dawn of the Industrial Age. Three workmen are putting the finishing touches to Causey Arch, the first stone-built railway bridge that would form part of the network of wagon ways.
The three men hammer and chisel, sing and dance, laugh and joke, and teeter on the edge of the parapet in this historical melodrama. Armed with songs, an array of hats and even a loaf of bread and a stick of celery, youthful County Durham actors Paddy Burton, Carl Kennedy and Chris Price unravel a story of mystery and intrigue, of romance and superstition and of loss and laughter.
"The play sums up all of the uncertainty of the age, while at the same time bringing the issues and ideas of 18th century England right up to date," says playwright Woodland.
For this touring production, Jack Drum Arts designer Simon Pell has re-created the top of Causey Arch and built a full-size wooden coal tub.
Tickets for next Thursday's 7.30pm performance cost £6.50, concessions £5.50, students £3.50, on 01904 658338. Please note, the show is suitable for 12 year olds and upwards.
Updated: 10:02 Friday, October 03, 2003
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