THE tale of a dead lead miner's journey to the cemetery will be recounted in a community play next month.

Last Dance of a Dalesman will be performed at five open-air venues in Richmondshire.

Some 40 local people will be joined by professional actors for the play, set in Swaledale, in 1953.

Director and writer Nobby Dimon said: "To get inspiration for the production, we held a series of meetings and workshops in Wensleydale and Swaledale.

"We invited people to come along and tell us about the myths and legends of the area.

"We collected a large number, but the one that got me the most interested was the story of the Corpse Way, in Swaledale, where mourners would carry their dead down the dale to Grinton Church."

The play is being produced by the charity Arts in Richmondshire, in partnership with English Heritage and North Country Theatre.

Funding of £20,000 was provided for the production by Arts Council England.

Nine open-air performances will be held at: Middleham Castle on June 16 and 17; Hardraw Scar, near Hawes, on June 18; Richmond Castle, from June 23 to 25; Forcett Hall, near Darlington, on June 30 and at Kiplin Hall, near Richmond, on July 1 and 2.

Tickets cost £7.50 in advance or £9 on the day for adults and £5 in advance and £6.50 on the day for children.

To book tickets, call (01969) 625142.

Published: 10/05/2005