One of the UK’s most ambitious live outdoor productions is celebrating a major milestone this summer as Kynren – An Epic Tale of England stages its 100th performance this weekend.
The landmark performance marks a remarkable achievement for the spectacular night show, which has captivated more than 450,000 visitors since its debut in 2016 and established Bishop Auckland as one of the country’s leading cultural tourism destinations.
Performed on one of the largest outdoor theatre stages in the UK, Kynren takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through 2,000 years of history, myth and legend.
Seen through the eyes of Young Arthur, a boy from the North East searching to discover his roots, the show brings England’s story vividly to life through breathtaking live action, mass choreography, stunning horsemanship, pyrotechnics, water effects and an original soundtrack, all performed on a vast 7.5 acre stage beneath the stars.
Across 29 dramatic scenes, audiences witness Boudicca’s battle against the Romans, Viking invasions, medieval tournaments, the age of Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth I, Victorian celebrations and even a full-size steam locomotive crossing the stage.
Behind every performance are 1,000 volunteers, known as the Archers, whose dedication has helped transform Kynren into one of the country’s most acclaimed live experiences.
Ranging in age from five to 88, they contribute to every aspect of the production, from performing on stage and caring for animals to costume making, stage management, pyrotechnics, first aid and visitor experience.
The strength of that community is reflected in the remarkable loyalty of its volunteers, with 95 per cent of those who took part in the 2025 season returning again in 2026.
Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren, said: “Reaching our 100th performance is a tremendous milestone for everyone who has been part of Kynren over the past decade.
“What began as an ambitious vision has become one of the country’s most spectacular live experiences, made possible by the extraordinary commitment of our volunteers, staff, supporters and partners.
“Every performance represents thousands of hours of dedication from people who generously give their time because they believe in what Kynren stands for.
“Their passion has created something truly special, not only for our audiences but for Bishop Auckland and the wider North East.
“We are incredibly proud of everything that has been achieved and excited about what the future holds,” she added.
Since opening in 2016, Kynren has become one of the North East’s leading visitor attractions, welcoming more than 450,000 visitors from across the UK and overseas while earning Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards year after year. Independent analysis estimates the production has contributed over £65.5 million to the local economy.
The 100th performance comes during a landmark year for the organisation following the successful launch of Kynren – The Storied Lands on 18th July.
The UK’s first live action show park has expanded the visitor experience with spectacular daytime shows, immersive historical environments and live productions, marking the next phase in Kynren’s long term vision to establish Bishop Auckland as one of the country’s most distinctive cultural and tourism destinations.
Together, Kynren – The Storied Lands by day and Kynren – An Epic Tale of England by night now offer visitors a unique full day and evening experience found nowhere else in the UK.
Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren, said: “Reaching our 100th performance is a wonderful milestone, but it is also the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
“The opening of Kynren – The Storied Lands has allowed us to build on everything we have achieved over the past decade and create an even richer visitor experience.
“Together, the daytime show park and our award-winning night show represent a significant investment in the future of Bishop Auckland, the North East and cultural tourism in the UK.
“None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary dedication of our volunteers, staff, supporters and partners.
“Their passion has transformed an ambitious idea into something truly special, and we are incredibly excited about what comes next,” she added.
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is performed every Saturday evening and selected Fridays until 12 September, continuing to take audiences on an unforgettable journey through 2,000 years of history, myth and legend.