Turrets Youth Theatre group recalls 1849 cholera outbreak in Barnard Castle for latest production (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Turrets Youth Theatre group recalls 1849 cholera outbreak in Barnard Castle for latest production

2:58pm Tuesday 19th February 2013 in News By Stuart Laundy, Reporter (Barnard Castle & Teesdale)

A YOUTH theatre group will transport audiences back to some of the darkest days in Barnard Castle's history.

The Turrets Youth Theatre – the junior section of the town's Castle Players – will perform Worlds of Light at St Mary's Parish Church, Newgate, on Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2.

The play focuses on the work of the Reverend George Dugard, the curate of St Mary's in the mid-19th century, and tells the story of how cholera took hold in the overcrowded yards and tenements around Bridgegate for three months in the autumn of 1849.

The production features a young cast aged 12-15 and will be director Jill Cole's last play with the Turrets.

Jill has led the group since 1997 but is standing down to let three former Turrets, who have returned to Barnard Castle after completing their higher education in London, Glasgow and Leeds, take the reins.

Rupert and Naomi Philbrick, along with Oliver Smith, will now lead the group, for youngsters aged 10-18.

Younger children in Year 4 and older will be able to join KanDo Youth Theatre, which is run by Kelvin and Stephanie Moore.

Jill said: “I am delighted there is still going to be the opportunity for young people in Teesdale to take part in high quality youth theatre and drama activities.”

Tickets for Worlds of Light are £6 and £4 and are available from Jill on 07802-603008 or from the NeST, in Newgate, Barnard Castle.