In a throw-back to the Middle Ages, The Cygnet Company is going on the road to tell the story of The Nativity. The Exeter-based training theatre company is basing the performance on the Medieval Mystery Cycles of York, Wakefield and Coventry. These plays were first performed 600 years ago, and the Cygnet's production features medieval pageantry, traditional Christmas carols, and earthy humour.
 | | The three shepherds in the play |
Records indicate that the original Mystery Cycles were performed on pageant wagons which were wheeled through the streets. The mystery plays were cycles of plays in English verse, dramatising Biblical stories. Some would take three days to tell! Cygnet - a member of the Conference of Drama Schools - is using the original texts to bring the Christmas story to life. The company won't be performing in a medieval wagon, but will be taking the play on tour. The 2005 tour takes them to Dorset, Somerset, and various locations in East Devon, and ends with a performance at Exeter Cathedral. Most of the performances are in churches, and it's hoped the beauty of the buildings will add to the atmosphere. The remaining tour date in Devon: Exeter Cathedral: 14 January 2006. For more details, contact Cygnet on 01392 277189. | 
