CityLife

24:7 Cold Light Singing: The Pendle Witches Story @ Midland Hotel Victoria Suite

SEVERAL books, plays and films have centred on the story of the infamous Pendle Witches, accused in 1612 of practising the black artsin the wake of the witch-hunts perpetrated by James I.

Function Factory Theatre's retelling of their story, written by Yvonne Pinnington who also plays Ann Redfearn, one of the accused, is told factually, but with flashes of poetic imagery thrown in.

The message, clear and strong, is that the majority of those accused were either innocent or just devout Catholics.

It says much for Russell Tennant's direction that, without scenery but with some good sound effects, this production conjures up the right atmosphere for this chilling reminder of the dangers of prejudice.

Cold Light Singing: The Pendle Witches Story is in the Midland Hotel Victoria Suite until Sunday, July 30. The 24:7 Festival run until then. For more information call 0161 236 7110 or click here .