07
Nov
Oxford Castle - Unlocked Presents.... Dance Around The Gallows
For the first time in its history and for just five nights this Christmas, Oxford Castle – Unlocked will play host to a magnificent musical event, when a century of history is transformed into song and performed in the prison walls. From 6 to 10 December, visitors will be treated to an evening of drama and music, as they journey through the castle enjoying Dance Around the Gallows, an interactive theatre experience.
Dance Around the Gallows is written and directed by Ian Giles, a renowned folk musician in Oxfordshire and a member of popular folk band Magpie Lane. Ian commented: “I’ve been thinking about how amazing a musical show would be at Oxford Castle for a long time. When you think about what amazing and frankly fascinating historical events have happened within the walls of this building, plus the fact that it has been used as both a castle and a prison for almost a millennium, it becomes an incredible place to stage a show. We will be performing a play portraying events that actually happened in the castle, making it so much more than just a set for the musical. I will be doing my absolute best to make it a hit!”
The audience will become part of the production, initiated into the cast as 17th century prisoners and invited to enjoy a series of songs which tell the story of some of the gaol’s most infamous characters. The musical production takes in various sites around the castle, with the audience following the story as the characters descend into the crypt and climb up St. George’s tower, before journeying through the prison wing cells.
Michael Speight, general manager at Oxford Castle – Unlocked commented, “Coming from a theatre background myself, the idea of creating a theatrical production out of the fascinating history at Oxford Castle – Unlocked was an opportunity not to be missed. It offers visitors something completely different and with Ian’s in-depth knowledge and expertise in both music and the history of the castle, Dance Around the Gallows looks set to be a show-stopper!”
Lying in the heart of the city, Oxford Castle – Unlocked was used as a place of incarceration for 800 years, until the closure of HM Prison in 1996. The old buildings have been preserved and are now open to the public revealing the tales of murder, romance, betrayal and executions that occurred behind its walls.
The musical show will play from 6 to 10 December from 7pm at Oxford Castle – Unlocked. Tickets are £13 for adults, £11 for concessions, and £10 for children (suitable for those aged over 12 years). For the chance to experience Dance Around the Gallows at Oxford Castle - Unlocked, call 0845 706255 or book online at www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk
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