This October, one of the most mysterious and sinister parts of Newcastle’s history will be exposed in a theatrical event taking place at the fortress that gave the city its name. 'WYTCH', running from 14 until 31 October (with no shows on the 16, 20, 22, 29 and 30), will be presented by Twenty Seven Live (the makers of ‘Hitler’s Headquarters’) and critically acclaimed writer Lee Mattinson (the man behind 'Crocodiles; at The Royal Exchange and 'Season Ticket' at Northern Stage).
By the seventeenth century, the Castle had outgrown its defensive purpose and was being used as a gaol for the county of Northumberland. Twenty Seven Live will present their performances in the Great Hall of the historic building. Beneath the audience’s feet lies the Castle’s basement where some of the accused ‘witches’ were imprisoned before their trials.
On 21st August, 1650, fourteen women and one man – condemned as “the children of Satan” – were hanged on the Town Moor: the largest mass execution for witchcraft in English history. This came towards the end of an era of paranoia, hysteria and fraud, triggered by the English Civil War.
Meet these lost souls. Hear their stories.
7.30pm
(Please note, no performances on 16th, 20th, 22nd, 30th October)
