THE Mystery Plays are set to be performed next year on the back of pageant wagons - but the organisers say this will not compensate fully for the loss of York's major static production.

Members of the cast from previous plays - including the Virgin Mary from the 2000 performance in the Minster - have continued to express their disappointment at the lack of a 2004 production.

The wagon plays are being planned for next year by the Friends of the Mystery Plays in the absence of a major production.

Artistic director Ray Alexander said the Friends, who for almost 50 years have supported the dramas, supplying actors, technicians, stage management, stewards, programme sellers and administrative support, were disappointed there is unlikely to be a production in 2004, or the year after.

"That means that if the next production is to be in 2010, the impetus and enthusiasm in the city may well have evaporated," he said, stressing that the plays brought many benefits to York through extra tourism revenue.

The venue for the wagon plays could not yet be announced, but he invited anyone interested in taking part to contact him on 01904 764222.

Meanwhile, Frances Marshall, who played the Virgin Mary in the 2000 production, has said she was really upset when she heard there would be no 2004 production.

"I had no idea this was going to happen. I think it's terrible."

She said her experience in 2000 had changed her life. "I had planned to do an English degree but instead did a drama degree, and I am going to apply to drama school after finishing my studies - hoping to be a professional actress."

Dame Judi Dench also played the Virgin Mary in 1957 and went on to a successful career on stage and screen.

Updated: 10:56 Monday, June 16, 2003