Preparations for Lichfield Mysteries 2009 are now in the final stages. Families are invited to take a free day out this weekend (July 4 or 5 – or both) to join in the excitement of some spectacular productions. There is something for everyone - some productions recreate the Bible stories in a traditional setting, others have been given more modern treatment, with up-to-date music. And there are some spectacular, colourful costumes and outstanding dramatic performances. Over the last few weeks members of each of the 25 groups have been busy preparing their particular contributions. Groups have had the benefit of the considerable expertise of the professional artistic team – artistic director Dominic Shaw, costume director and designer John Brooking and music director Anthony Evans. The two performance stages for the Mysteries – at Market Square and Lichfield Cathedral – will be a hive of activity as hundreds of actors, singers, musicians and backstage crews bring the stories to life. “It has been wonderful to see how the plays have emerged this year,” said Council of Management chairman Polly Dixon. “The individual directors and casts have put their own interpretations on the traditional stories and have produced some amazing plays. “For those who may think the Mysteries are just ‘stuffy Bible stories’ enacted in the street, think again. This is a Mysteries for 2009, some of it traditional, much of it modern and all of it entertaining.” “We do hope that families will come along and enjoy the spectacle – there really is something for everyone.” As well as the plays, people can enjoy a Bards ‘n’ Butties event in St Mary’s Centre when The Lichfield Poets perform in the coffee shop at 10.30am each day. Children will enjoy Shepherd’s Crook Puppet Theatre performances in the Cathedral Lady Chapel at various times over the weekend. Sylvia Royal’s art groups have been inspired by the Mysteries to produce some incredible pieces of work, also on display in the Cathedral. Musicians from Nottingham Music School and Brassery will play a concert on Market Square on both afternoons after the plays have finished there at about 3.30pm and Lichfield Morris Men will be dancing in the streets. The 2009 Lichfield Mysteries look set to be the best yet – a weekend showcase of talent for which Lichfield has always been noted. And it’s all free! | 
