One of our Ripon area churches has been transformed to play host to a church murder mystery, bringing the community into the building and raising money as well.
The 12th Century church of St Andrew’s Kirkby Malzead was turned into a cathedral to act as the setting of a new play: ‘Becket – A Medieval Murder Mystery’.
Written by retired local GP Mike Harford-Cross, the play tells the tale of the murder of St Thomas a Becket, and a subsequent papal investigation to determine who was involved and in what way.
Mike wanted the play to be an opportunity for the church and community to come together, showing the church building in a new way as a place for all.
The play acted as a fundraiser for the church, with profits from the production being shared between the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust and the St Andrew’s Restoration Fund.
In an imaginative use of the building, the 900-year-old church of St Andrew’s was transformed into various settings in England, France and Rome, using full staging and lighting, alongside period appropriate music, costumes and food.
The Kirkby Malzeard Mowbray Theatre Group put on the production, with the Revd Andrew Cromarty, House for Duty Associate Priest in the Fountains Benefice, playing King Henry II.
Revd Andrew said: “The event has been hugely significant locally, pulling in actors and backstage crew from several local villages, and a good mix of church and wider community contributors.
“Well over 300 people attended the play, and it has been a talking point in our local villages subsequently, with various folk suggesting a renaissance of the now-defunct annual pantomime!”
The play and the space were enjoyed by all, with one attendee writing: “What an incredible night! Thank you so much for the experience – it was truly amazing.
“From the moment I stepped into the graveyard, the anticipation was palpable. Walking into the church, packed with an eager crowd, I immediately felt the buzz. The energy in the room was electric.
“By the end of the evening, I was left considering whether history conceals a shadowy secret that might one day come to light, much like the true narrative of Richard III. You all produced a thrilling night of entertainment!”