CityLife

Join the search for Golden Fleece in Lancaster

Chris Jacks as Jason

IF you enjoy your outdoor theatre but fancy something a bit more swashbuckling than the usual Shakespearian fare – it might be worth day trip to Lancaster this summer.

As the county town’s theatre will team up with Williamson Park to lay on an adaptation of Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece from July 2.

Adapted by Kevin Dyer and directed by Joe Sumsion, the production which runs until August 8, is 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.

The creative team from last year’s production of Beauty and the Beast have been reunited to bring the park to life once again. 

On the production, 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?

Transforming

“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.

Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece is on at Williamson Park, Lancaster from Thursday, July 2 until Saturday, August 8. Recommended for everyone over the age of 7. Monday – Thursday 7.15pm: £15.50 (concessions £12), Friday 7.15pm: £17 (concessions £12), Saturday 7.15pm: £18 (concessions £12). Call 01524 598500.