The Dukes and Williamson Park present
Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece
Press Release : Review : Production photographs
The Dukes 23rd Open-Air Walkabout Theatre Event
The Dukes and Williamson Park present
Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece
Adapted by Kevin Dyer
Directed by Joe Sumsion
2 July – 8 August 2009
Each year thousands of people head to Williamson Park to enjoy the biggest open-air walkabout theatre event in Britain. This year the adventures of Jason and the Argonautswill be brought spectacularly to life by The Dukes from 2 July – 8 August.
This timeless story of love, honour and heroism is based on the ancient Greek myths that have beguiled generations. As the audience climb aboard the Argo, they will join Jason as he encounters countless obstacles in his quest for the Golden Fleece. A community choir of Sirens made up of specially selected local women will also attempt to lure the audience into the rocks with their bewitching song.
The creative team from last year’s production of Beauty and the Beast have been reunited to bring the park to life once again.
Director Joe Sumsion expands:
“Whenever I tell people we’re doing Jason and the Argonauts they smile, some even laugh, and I know they are thinking – great, but how on earth will you do that? Well as a creative team we are loving the challenge of transforming Williamson Park into Ancient Greece and the home of the gods. We’re playing with scale, making huge and tiny puppets, composing wonderful epic music, building boats and planning for amazing lighting and special effects. I can’t wait to see the audience’s reaction as they discover Poseidon rising from the sea, skeletons emerging from the earth and the Sirens luring them to an exquisite, gory fate. But how will we achieve the famous clashing rocks? The answer is, you’ll just have to wait and see.”
This year’s cast includes two Dukes regulars, Lisa Howard (Beauty and the Beast, Pinocchio) and David Action (Sabbat). Eagle eyed audience members may also recognise Craig Rogan who appeared at The Dukes last autumn with Northern Broadsides. The cast is completed by Kate Crossley, Kirsten Shaw, Noel White and Chris Jacks who plays Jason.
Recommended for everyone over the age of 7.
ENDS