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Huge crowds applaud after defying the weather for epic Kynren opening show
HUGE crowds applauded after the opening show of a spectacular outdoor theatre event telling the story of 2,000 years of English history. The audience didn't let the wet conditions stop them as tenth anniversary celebrations kicked off at Kynren – An Epic Tale of England - in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, last night (Saturday, July 19). The 1,000-strong volunteer cast and crew performed on the seven-and-a-half-acre outdoor stage featuring combat, stunts, horsemanship, stunning pyrotechnics and amazing special effects.
The opening night of the brand new summer show at Kynren (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd) Visitors were also the first to watch Kynren's new scene focusing on Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee Parade, featuring new music, costumes, and nearly 200 new characters. The show was brought together by majestic horses and impressive new props to portray the vibrant essence of Victorian society, with unexpected dashes of humour and comedy. Eloise Oakes, one of Kynren's volunteers who stars in the new jubilee scene said: "All of us involved in this reimagined part of the show have been rehearsing thoroughly to ensure this new spectacle wows our audiences.
HUGE crowds applauded after the opening show of a spectacular outdoor theatre event telling the story of 2,000 years of English history. (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd) "The Jubilee scene is incredibly dynamic, with around 180 of us on stage at once, all moving in carefully choreographed sequences alongside some impressive new props. "It's been so much fun learning the detail and seeing it all come together. I think audiences will be amazed by the beautiful new projections too – they really stood out to me when I first saw them. "They're so colourful and help set the perfect tone for this joyful part of the show."
(Image: North News & Pictures Ltd) Kynren has grown from strength to strength in the build up to its tenth anniversary season, welcoming over 430,000 visitors since it began and contributing £65.5 million to the local economy while creating 146 jobs. This summer also sees the return of the popular pre-show Viking Village, which offers visitors immersive experience with authentic sights, sounds, and interactions in a recreated settlement. Practice battle cries with the magnificent Viking warriors themselves as they prepare for a raid, watch sparks fly at the blacksmith's forge, and witness the characterful sheep, donkeys and real Icelandic chickens whose origins can be traced back to the 9th century.
(Image: North News & Pictures Ltd) Anna Warnecke, Kynren CEO, said: "Saturday evening's incredible performance, the first of our 2025 season, was testament to the hard-work, skill and creativity that has been poured into this production by all involved. "The dedication and passion from our volunteers is truly remarkable, and we appreciate every single person that helps continue the legacy of Kynren and the impact it has on our market town and the region." Kynren is a real whistlestop tour of 2000 years of history myth and legend. It is a spellbinding, family-friendly experience delivering thrills, shocks, tears, laughs, goosebumps and gasps on a truly cinematic scale.
Packed out crowds for the opening night (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
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The 90-minute performances start at sunset and end in starlight and will be taking place every Saturday night until 13th September. Tickets cost from £30 for adults and from £20 for under 18s. Children aged 3 and under are free when sat on an adult's knee. For further information and to book tickets, visit
