Kynren’s 10th Anniversary Season Brings Victorian Spectacle to Life with New Props, Fire Engine, and a Touch of Local Heritage

When Kynren – An Epic Tale of England returns to its magnificent outdoor stage on Saturday 19th July, audiences can look forward to a spectacular new twist on a beloved scene, as the production marks its 10th anniversary with a stunning reimagining of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee Parade.

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A major highlight of the refreshed scene is the addition of 311 new props and costumes, 186 characters, and 18 majestic horses – promising to transport audiences to the heart of Victorian London with incredible authenticity. Original Victorian prams, sourced from across the UK, including Spennymoor, will roll through the streets of this bustling recreation, as nannies, bankers, chimney sweeps and newspaper boys fill the stage with energy and colour – all set beneath the dramatic silhouette of Auckland Palace.

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And for the first time ever, a full-scale replica Victorian fire engine will make its debut in the show. Based on an original 1890 design named Nelson – once housed at Beamish Living Museum and gifted to Bishop Auckland’s community by a local GP – this impressive new addition was digitally recreated using the latest tech, offering a light-hearted moment of comedy amid the grandeur.

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“Kynren’s creative ambition grows year after year,” says CEO Anna Warnecke, who also performs as a jouster in the show. “This is one of our most complex and ambitious scenes yet – and it’s brought to life not only by our technology and performers but also by local history and the incredible volunteers behind the scenes.”

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Among them is the Rossi family, who have been with Kynren since its first season. Former art teacher Mark Rossi, wife Anne, and son Chris work together in the props department, and this year they’re being honoured for their longstanding contribution. A replica ice cream cart bearing the Rossi name will be included in the new Jubilee scene – a nod to Mark’s grandfather, one of the Italian ice cream pioneers of Bishop Auckland in the 1920s.

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“I’ve filled sketchbooks over the years with drawings of props,” says Mark. “To see them on stage – and now to see our family’s name wheeled out on an ice cream cart – is something really special.”

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From Queen Victoria’s grand six-horse carriage to the iconic Locomotion No.1, props are integral to Kynren’s success. With over 3,000 individual pieces, they help tell 2,000 years of British history, legend, and myth in the 90-minute show, from Boudicca to the Blitz and beyond.

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Kynren’s extended 2025 season runs every Saturday night from 19th July to 13th September, with performances beginning at sunset and finishing under the stars. With dazzling visuals, breathtaking stunts, and unforgettable storytelling, this 5-star rated spectacle is a must-see summer event.

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🎟️ For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.kynren.com