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Bacon and Bungay
Location: Norfolk
This project aimed to research and stage a production of the play The Honourable History of Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay. This dates from 1589 and is often called the first modern English play. It is set in and around Harleston. Most residents, however, were unaware of its existence and importance.
Robert Greene was born in Norwich and set his romantic
comedy in this part of the Waveney valley. A brief plot overview:
When the King's son falls for a dairymaid, the Fair Maid of Fressingfield, he enlists the help of his best friend, (disguised as a Beccles farmer) and the skills of the world's greatest magician, the infamous Friar Bacon, in order to win her. But things do not go according to plan...
Packed with romance, broad comedy and miraculous magic, this was the first time this rumbustious play had been performed for several years.
The outdoor performances took place in June 2006 at Bateman's Barn - South Elmham Hall, Bungay Castle, The Swan Inn - Hoxne, Harleston and Fressingfield.
Harleston Players employed a director, who also adapted the play, set designer, costume designer, stage manager, researchers, PR expert and website designer and encouraged local volunteers to take part in the project. (See contacts). With a cast of 30, a crew of not many fewer and a group of about 25 costume makers, there was heavy local involvement. The costume makers are going to remain as a group to make costumes for future Harleston Players' productions and those of other amateur theatre companies.
Project outputs included 6 performances of the play, a copy of the script of the adapted play, a booklet about the author - The Story of Robert Greene and programmes, leaflets etc. and a web site. The performances were free of charge to the audience as was all the literature. Performances were publicised in local newspapers, magazines and radio. Publications are available FOC from contacts on the website.
Group Name |
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Harleston Players |
| Project Contact |
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David Cumming |
| Address |
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Hillfold, Trunch Hill. Denton. Harleston. Norfolk. IP20 0AN |
| Project Postcode |
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IP20 0AN |
| Finishing Date |
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31 Dec 07 |
| See also |
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Harleston Players website |
| Grants: |
Heritage Lottery Fund: £24750
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