A play is to bring to life the 800-year-old story of Durham’s grade-one-listed manor house Crook Hall, including the legend of its alleged haunting.
The White Lady – a Tapestry of Crook Hall will feature a number of characters and events from the Hall’s long history, all seen from the perspective of the ‘White Lady’ who is said to be the building’s resident ghost.
The play – specially written for Crook Hall’s 800th anniversary – explores the themes of time, life, death, love, war and our connections to the past.
The White Lady – a Tapestry of Crook Hall was written by north-east playwright John Seymour. The play will be directed by his wife Sarah Seymour and staged in the manor house’s atmospheric medieval hall.
Sarah Seymour commented, “Producing The White Lady at Crook Hall has been a wonderful opportunity for us, especially as we were actually married there in 2015.”
“It’s a beautiful venue that is very dear to us both, so having the chance to stage a play there will be a great thrill.”
Crook Hall stands off Sidegate in the Framwellgate area of Durham City. The oldest parts of the building date back to the 13th century though extensions were added in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Hall is surrounded by English-style gardens that are said to be among the finest in the north east.
Crook Hall is now a tourist attraction and it also serves as a venue for weddings and other events.
The White Lady – a Tapestry of Crook Hall will be staged at Crook Hall, Durham City, on 22nd and 23rd October. Doors open at 6.00 pm and the play starts at 6.30 pm. Tickets cost £13.50 and can be booked by going to crookhallgardens.co.uk or by telephoning 0191 384 8028.
(Featured image courtesy of domwlive, from Flickr Creative Commons)
