A Norse legend involving dragons and a Viking warrior will be brought to life in Ripon by actors next month.
They will tell the story of Sigurd, the dragon slayer, who has a link to the city through a stone dating back to the 10th century.
Known as the Sigurd Stone, It is widely thought to be part of the grave of a Norse settler, who died in Ripon.
The prized and unusual artefact, which is kept in the cathedral’s library and treasury, combines Christian imagery in the cross-shape and Norse mythology, with its image of the Viking warrior.
Sigurd’s story will be told in words and song on November 4 and 6 when performers from Hazelsong Theatre, with their six-metre long dragon puppet, parade around Ripon before performing a new piece of theatre in locations across the city.
Part of the Sigurd Stone at Ripon Cathedral. Picture: The Megalithic Portal
The theatre group is offering music workshops, sock puppet making and free performances to encourage families.
The team is also looking to collaborate with folk musicians to perform new pieces of music about the story during a free lunchtime concert. More details can be found on the cathedral events page here.
Through song, dance and music, attendees can explore the Norse legend surrounding the dragon Fafnir and Sigurd.
The performers in action. Picture: Hazelsong Theatre
On November 4, between 10am and 12 noon, members of the public are invited to bring an instrument and become involved in the collaborative music-making session, playing alongside folk duo the Brothers Gillespie and Hazelsong Theatre.
This will be followed at 1pm by a lunchtime by with the folk musicians.
At 3.15pm the Dragon Parade will set off from the cathedral and head onto Market Square.
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On 6 November between 9.30am and 12 noon, professional puppet makers Andy Bates and Linda Richardson will help visitors to craft their own dragon sock puppet
This will be followed by a further dragon parade through Ripon, ending with the tale of Sigurd and Fafnir at the Band Stand in Spa Gardens.
