The amazing final scene of the ancient Chester Mystery cycle: The Trinity above, surrounded by the hosts of Heaven and the gaping jaws of Hell below... The apparition in the forefround has just roared out from under the stage, emitting smoke and noise and glowing with a weird red light- a truly awesome sight. Immediately after this, the cycle came to a joyous end for another five years as the audience and performers poured onto the green for an impromptu party.

On the left we see the same scene as a small detail on the American textile artist, B J Elvgren's magnificent Chester Mystery Plays Quilt. Measuring 6 by 5 feet, the quilt was purchased from the artist by the Mystery Plays Board and presented to Chester Cathedral in 1997, where it remains on permanent public exhibition.

The 2000 plays restored the ancient practice of performing from the back of a 'pageant wagon' and took place at the Cross (Saturdays) and Town Hall Square (Sundays) between June 24th and July 30th.

The next cycle of Chester Mystery Plays will be staged June 28th to July 19th 2008. Here is the official website.

A short history of the Chester Mysteries is currently in preparation and will be appearing here shortly.

The photo library at the Black & White Picture Place possesses a comprehensive photographic record of the 1992 cycle of plays, all available as beautiful handmade prints. Here are a few examples...