Chester Mystery Plays

A unique part of Chester's dramatic history is set to be broadcast around the world today, Good Friday.
The renowned Chester Mystery Plays will be streamed on YouTube for the first time in the spectacle's 700-year history.
Live recordings of Act I and Act II of the 2018 cycle (the plays take place every five years), will be broadcast at 10.30am on Friday 10th April and remain available online for a further eight weeks.
It was highly acclaimed by critics – describing it as 'an impressive spectacle' (The Stage), 'an artistic triumph' (The Chester Chronicle), 'a celebration of a community' (Northern Soul) and 'powerful and magnificent' (North West End).
Many of the 150 community actors who took part in the 2018 Chester Mystery Plays were due to take part in the Chester City Passion on Good Friday. The annual promenade performance throughout the city usually starts at 10.30am on Good Friday but was cancelled in mid-March in light of government restrictions, imposed to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Peter Leslie Wild told us: "Community theatre plays such an important role in people's lives and in these days of social distancing and isolation many will be missing the friendship and companionship of projects like the Chester Mystery Plays and the Chester City Passion.
"This broadcast is a wonderful opportunity for cast members, friends and the people of Chester especially to be reminded of happier times."
The Chester Mystery Plays tell Bible stories – including The Creation, Noah's Ark, The Nativity and The Crucifixion .
They were first written in the 14th century and performed by the guildsmen of the city on wagons around the streets.
The recording was made by PH Production Services Ltd and will be shown on the Chester Mystery Plays channel on YouTube.
"The Chester Mystery Plays are a huge commitment for our community cast and we are delighted to be able to share their performance with a wider audience during this difficult time."