Noah's Ark discovery boosts Durham Mystery Plays

7th May 2010

Categories: Visitor News

In the same month a team of archaeologists claimed to have discovered Noah’s Ark atop a mountain in Turkey, organisers of Britain’s newest cycle of Mystery Plays are giving the public a chance to see the famous tale given a modern makeover.

Noah's Ark Ministries International, a group based in Hong Kong claimed to have found the original ark atop Mount Ararat in Eastern Turkey – sparking a major media storm over the authenticity of the find.

The Durham Mystery Plays – Britain’s newest and most modern reinterpretation of the Bible’s ancient stories about human morals – includes a version of the Ark story called Noah and the Fludd, by award-winning 'Skellig' author, David Almond, and takes place from May 27-29 in Durham’s historic Cathedral city. Organisers hope the find will spark public interest in the story and other such biblical tales.

Simon Stallworthy, Creative Director for the Durham Mysteries, said "It just goes to show how relevant the stories featured in the Bible and the Durham Mysteries are today. 

This latest announcement of the discovery of the Ark once again has people animated about a tale we all learn in childhood.  Our modern adaptation brings the story right up to date, tackling important issues about the environment and humanity's failure to care for the planet."

The new interpretation, directed by Annie Rigby, is tied to the culture and heritage of North East England with giraffes discovered in Birtley and the Ark coming to rest on Penshaw Monument near Sunderland. 

Noah and the Fludd will be performed by a group featuring local school children and adults from Peterlee on the Durham Coast, and is one of ten plays being given the a ctting edge makeover. Others include The Fall of Lucifer, Cain and Abel and Adam and Eve which will be retold by street dance troupes, rappers, light and sound artists, singers, dancers and professional actors.

The Durham Mysteries run from Thursday 27 - Saturday 29 May at various locations across Durham city.  For tickets and information contact Gala Box Office on 0191 332 4041 or visit the website at www.durhammysteries.co.uk.

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