Kynren – a Performance to Remember

5 July 2025

Early this evening I set off for a preview of Kynren an annual specular staged in the open on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland in County Durham. I had no idea what to expect.

I arrived at 7 pm, two hours before the show was due to start. I had to wonder how I was going to fill the time. But I need not have worried as there was plenty to do. I started with some supper, a juicy burger accompanied by a generous helping of chips. I then set off to explore the site. It is a permanent site with the temporary addition of snack shacks and a Viking Village. This little settlement, around a small lake is an insight into the lives of the Vikings. There were demonstrations of their handicrafts and hunting techniques. But no time to linger as pubic announcements were encouraging me to take my seat.

A huge, permanent auditorium capable of seating the 8,000 spectators who flock here every year to enjoy Kynren, slightly tweaked every year to keep up with trends. Known as the Tribune this seating area overlooks some beautifully landscaped grounds below the historic Auckland Palace on the other side of the River Wear. From my seat I could enjoy a panoramic view of the large panoramic stage that encompasses a replica of the palace, a house, a bridge and a boathouse. A buzz of anticipation hung over this superb setting as we waiting for the show to begin. And, as the sun began to set behind it a lone falconer stepped on to the stage. His falcon circled and dipped low over the audience as the excitement mounted. Laughter broke out when a flock of crowned cranes swooped in and started pecking for treats on the grassy stage – and refused to exit stage left.

The story began to an unfold with an introduction by the Geordie Kevin Whately who set the scene and was also the voice of old Arthur. It was Old Arthur who encouraged Young Arthur to take a journey through the many eras of English history to understand his own heritage. Hence the title of the production, Kynren, which loosely translated means who you are and who you will be. It was local people who came up with the idea to stage this production and hundreds of them take part in this very professional production – some, so I heard, having five costume changes. The cast also includes a herd of horse, flocks of geese and sheep, a pair of cows and a few goats – all beautifully behaved. And, I almost forgot, a boat, a Bently and a locomotive.

Twenty-nine dramatic scenes take the audience on a journey through the history of England evoking emotions from laughter to tears. The joyous sight of a flock of geese waddling across a setting representing merrie England to the sombre procession of coffins representing the tragedy following an explosion in the mines. Music, dancing, fireworks and lighting effects all lifted the spirits. While jousting and battles kept me on the edge of my seat. So much to watch and admire on the huge stage in front of me – every inch of it being brought into play. It was an incredible, memorable experience.

There will be a performance of Kynren every Saturday this summer from 19 July to 13 September inclusive.

Book tickets here