IT IS one of the most spectacular and historic productions to be staged in the county.

A new and bold production of the medieval cycle of York Mystery Plays will be staged in the historic city next month.

The York Mystery Plays have been told by the people of York for hundreds of years and are deeply embedded in the city’s cultural heritage. From August 2 to 27, more than 1,700 local people will join forces with a huge professional team to help create this spectacular production in York Museum Gardens.

Two professional actors, Ferdinand Kingsley and Graeme Hawley have been cast to lead the company.

Ferdinand Kingsley is to play the role of God/Jesus. He has previously performed in productions for The National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Appearing alongside him in the role of the Devil is Graeme Hawley, who played one of TV’s most infamous villains on Coronation Street, and was nominated for Villain of the Year in the 2009 and 2011 British Soap Awards for his role as John Stape.

The production marks a collaboration between York Theatre Royal, Riding Lights Theatre and York Museums Trust which will see this remarkable cycle of plays staged against the stunning backdrop of St Mary’s Abbey, in the heart of the historic city of York.

Evening performances are at 7.30pm and there are Saturday matinees at 2.30pm.

There is also a chance to take a guided tour around the York Mystery Plays set at St Mary’s Abbey, see how it works and hear about its construction.

You can book for Tour and Tea which costs £10 and includes a 40 minute tour, as well as a tea/coffee and slice of cake from the food court.

Tours will be limited to a capacity of 20 people.

Performance tickets are £20-£42 (evening) and £15-£35 (matinee) with concessions available.

The box office is on 01904 623568 or online at www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk