Behind the Plays: Bringing York Mystery Plays 2026 to Life

How do you bring one of York's oldest and most cherished traditions to life for a modern audience?
Join Pageant Master Dr Alan Heaven and York Festival Trust Chair and Producer Roger Lee for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at York Mystery Plays 2026. Discover how the production has been developed, from artistic vision and historical inspiration to the practical challenges of staging a city-wide theatrical event involving hundreds of performers, volunteers and community partners.
Drawing on their unique perspectives, Alan and Roger will explore the creative process, the significance of the plays in York's cultural life, and what audiences can expect from this year's production. The talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session, giving attendees the opportunity to learn more about the making of the plays and the people behind them.
Whether you are a long-time supporter of the Mystery Plays, a theatre enthusiast, a student of York's history, or simply curious about what it takes to produce one of the city's most ambitious cultural events, this promises to be an engaging and insightful afternoon.