Final preparations underway for the Lichfield Mysteries

Preparations for the Lichfield Mysteries 2009 are now in the final stages.

Families are invited to take a free day out on July 4 or 5  to join in the excitement of some spectacular productions.

Performers from Lichfield's Sajja Arts Collective who are performing The Creation of Heaven and Hell

There is something for everyone – some productions recreate the Bible stories in a traditional setting, others have been given more modern treatment, with up-to-date music.

And there are some spectacular, colourful costumes, outstanding dramatic performances and brilliant musical contributions.

Members of The Seraphim Guild who will feature in The Prologue

There are 25 groups taking part, performing on two stages – Market Square, Lichfield and in the Cathedral.

Groups have had the benefit of the considerable expertise of the professional artistic team – Artistic Director Dominic Shaw, Costume Director and Designer John Brooking and Music Director Anthony Evans.

Council of Management chairman Polly Dixon said:

“It has been wonderful to see how the plays have emerged this year. The individual directors and casts have put their own interpretations on the traditional stories and have produced some amazing plays.

“For those who may think the Mysteries are just ‘stuffy Bible stories’ enacted in the street, think again. This is a Mysteries for 2009, some of it traditional, much of it modern and all of it entertaining. We do hope that families will come along and enjoy the spectacle – there really is something for everyone.”

As well as the plays, people can enjoy a Bards ‘n’ Butties event in St Mary’s Centre when The Lichfield Poets perform in the coffee shop at 10.30am each day.

Council of Management Chair Polly Dixon in costume for Doomsday with Mysteries 2009 professional directors John Brooking, Music Director Anthony Evans in John's creation for Greed and Artistic Director Dominic Shaw

Children will enjoy Shepherd’s Crook Puppet Theatre performances in the Cathedral Lady Chapel at various times over the weekend.

Sylvia Royal’s art groups have been inspired by the Mysteries to produce some incredible pieces of work, also on display in the Cathedral.

Musicians from Nottingham Music School and Brassery will play a concert on Market Square on both afternoons after the plays have finished there at about 3.30pm and Lichfield Morris Men will be dancing in the streets.

The 2009 Lichfield Mysteries look set to be the best yet – a weekend showcase of talent for which Lichfield has always been noted. And it’s all free!