1066: Three Kings

About

A brand new telling of the famous 1066 story, which unravels the mysteries, rivalries and bitter conflicts that led to a final battle that would change our history forever.

“The Battle of Hastings is a story that everyone thinks they know,” says playwright Michael Punter. “Two blokes meet on a field, fight for a bit, one gets shot in the eye and the other one wins. That was my view until about two years ago, when I toured the battlefield with a friend who teaches history in the US. He told me the backstory of the battle – feuds, betrayal and deceit - and it suddenly all came to life in my mind like a very good episode of Game of Thrones!”

This backstory, shocking and exciting, is what is explored in the play. King Harold came from a family called the Godwins, who had slowly been grabbing land and titles over the previous three decades by helping the Viking King Canute to control England. So, for many English people, the Godwins were traitors who had sold the country out. When Canute died, and feuding broke out between his sons, Prince Edward (later called the Confessor) was recalled from Normandy to be King of England. The head of the Godwin clan was implicated in the death of Edward’s brother, so there was no love lost between them. When Edward died, Harold claimed the throne, but Edward’s friends in Normandy had other ideas. The rest, as they say, is history.

Community actors and musicians weave a story that will surprise and astonish in equal measure. Expect a visceral, engaging performance, with original music commissioned from internationally renowned composer Gary Ryan and magical effects by West End theatrical illusion designer Darren Lang.

Showing Friday 7 October to Friday 14 October, 7.30pm and Sunday matinee 3pm, at The Stables theatre. Adults £13, under 18s and groups £10, members £8.